Teacher shares personal stories about his wife's and his decision-making struggles
His wife struggles with indecision (e.g., at the grocery store)
He tends to make hasty, rash decisions
Their main marital strife question: "What do you want to do for dinner?"
Importance of Decisions
Some decisions in life are much more critical than daily choices (e.g., what bread to buy)
Bad decisions can lead to serious consequences
Real-life big decisions include where to go to college, who to date, whether to get married, where to work, etc.
Surprised when people make big decisions without consulting their life group
The aim is to give a framework for decision-making to prevent bad choices
Six Questions Framework
Derived from the "Five W's and One H" used in journalism and police investigations
Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How as applied to decision-making
1. Who Should Speak into This Decision?
Consult advisors and those impacted by the decision
Biblical references from Proverbs emphasize the importance of seeking advice (e.g., Proverbs 12:15, 15:22)
Importance of Christian community and life groups for collective wisdom
Distinguish between sharing an idea and selling an idea; seek genuine counsel not just confirmation
2. What Are the Facts?
Gather all relevant data before making a decision
Proverbs 18:13 advises to listen before answering
Questions to consider: income, debt, savings, etc.
Be open and transparent with your group; check pride at the door
3. When Do You Need a Decision?
Understand your timeline and avoid making hasty decisions
Proverbs 19:2 and Ecclesiastes 5 warn against hastiness
Rule of thumb: "If driven by FOMO, don't go"
Use pressure as an indicator to slow down and consult others
4. Where Do the Scriptures Speak to This?
Search the Bible for guidance, consult others for interpretation
Proverbs 2:6 highlights that wisdom comes from the Lord
Ensure the correct application of scripture; don’t interpret it to fit personal desires
5. Why Do You Want to?
Analyze your motives; are they selfish or selfless?
Proverbs 16:2: God weighs the motives
Confess strong desires to your group to identify any blind spots
6. How Will God Be Glorified in This Decision?
The ultimate aim is to glorify God through your decisions
Examples: if a decision involves sin, avoid it; focus on loving God and others
Proverbs 15:33: Wisdom leads to fearing the Lord and humility
Biblical Application
Example of Jesus making decisions: who (consulting the Father), what (facts of His mission), when (timing of His sacrifice), where (scriptural foundation), why (to save humanity), how (glorify the Father)
Conclusion
Apply the framework of who, what, when, where, why, and how to every big decision
Emphasize communal and scriptural support in all decisions
Pray for guidance to avoid pride, embrace correction, and make wise choices