Decisions, Decisions: How and How Not to Make Them

by Dave Swavely

How can I know what God wants me to do? We make choices, and then our choices makes us (or break us!). This is true of "big" decisions of course, but "little" decisions are just as important because they lead to the big ones. All of our choices are the threads in the fabric of our future. Ultimately, our decisions are so important because they have ramifications beyond this life, and into eternity. What's more, the way we make decisions is a central part of our personal relationship with God. We need to learn how to make good decisions so that will be able to make the best choice immediately, and instinctively. In clear and thoughtful steps, Swavely uncovers and explains the principles that God uses to lead and guide us including: how we should consider feelings, impressions or prompting, circumstances, counsel, desires and prayer. This brief yet relentlesly biblical book also helps us avoid some common errors that can rob our joy, and send us off in the wrong direction. Here, in this the theologically grounded volume, you will gain the wisdom and discernment necessary to practice God's way of making good decisions that honor him.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living

190 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2003

About the author

Dave Swavely is the author of numerous books, both fiction and non-fiction. His fiction includes the futuristic action/mystery Peacer series (Silhouette and Kaleidocide) published by Thomas Dunne Books, a division of Macmillan; and Next Life and Haunted Man published by Cruciform Press. His non-fiction titles include Life in the Father's House, Decisions Decisions, Who Are You to Judge?, From Embers to a Flame, and Unto Others: Rediscovering the Golden Rule.

He has also written numerous articles, songs, and poems, and has spoken at conferences throughout the country. He has edited books by Dr. John MacArthur, Dr. Harry Reeder, and others like Introduction to Biblical Counseling, by MacArthur, Mack, et al, and 3D Leadership by Reeder. He loves playing basketball, watching USC football, and reading graphic novels. He lives in beautiful Chester County, Pennsylvania and has seven children and five grandchildren. Dave has had the privilege of serving as a pastor in four churches, the founding principal of two schools, and President of the nonprofit ministry The Way With Words.

Reviews

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book on Biblical decision making!!!

[Isaac Kinman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great help in learning to make decisions in a wise way. Teaches through the use of Scripture to use the resources available- God's Word, Wisdom, Counsel, and Desire. Easy Read too.

[Andrew Scholes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book about how to have Biblical decision making. It consists of knowing scripture well. Being fervent in prayer and seeking wisdom from God. I highly recommend this book.

[Joshua Chipchase · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on "God's Will" I have read. Well written, Biblical, well laid out, and practical. Very strong on the sufficiency of scripture and from a cessationist perspective. Very ably exposes the problems with a lot of people's views on "God's Will" and gives clarity (in the midst of a lot of confusion) on how to make wise decisions.

I would quibble with a few points of theology, but my only major criticism is that the book (though not super long) may be too long to give to the average church member.

But overall this would be my top recommendation for a biblical decision making/guidance/God's Will book.

[Jonathan Song · Rating 3 out of 5]

A book whose title gives away its tenor and tone throughout. Dave's book is unapologetically Reformed in its presentation; but often spends its time in the argument of negation rather than for my eyes, a truly winsome approach to convince others against a poor biblical understanding of decision making. What I appreciate is Dave's willingness to go more technical into biblical interpretation and exegesis that is accessible for pastors and laypersons alike. Good read for those looking to get a truly Reformed perspective on wisdom and stewardship in decision making.

[Ellie Duggan · Rating 1 out of 5]

I appreciated the section on how to make wise, biblical decisions. However, the author spends the first half of the book with what I found to be a very ungracious attack on charismatic beliefs and practices with biblical evidence that I thought weak at best and, at worst, twisted out of context. I think he would have done far better sticking to arguing for his strategy (which is a strong one) and not deriding other views.