5 Ways To Make a Difficult Decision

One of the most difficult things leaders face is decision making. This is particularly true if the choices are related to crisis management or people. Many times there are no quick, clear answers to conflict. 

What are they to do? How do leaders come to an effective decision in the midst of a difficult circumstance? 

There's no simple answer. Obviously, deep prayer and biblical study are essential in occasions like this. Yet, are there other things that can be coupled with intercession and Scriptural reflection? 

I believe there is.

While there is no formula for decision making, the following five items can help a leader in the process of making an effective choice.

1. Get The Facts - Quick!

Leaders need to be able to cut to the bottom line as fast as possible. What is really going on? What is the argument really about? Talk to all the relevant people and get the core facts as soon as possible.

2. Consider The Source

Leaders have to know from where and from whom their information is coming. Are the messengers and messages reliable? Could they be knowingly or unknowingly clouding facts because of a particular agenda? Not everyone's words have equal weight. Who else needs to be consulted in order to get a clearer picture of what is going on?

3. Seek Counsel

Leaders have a tendency to want to go it alone. That is a mistake. Leaders do well when they gain insight from other leaders. Learn from those who have done what you are about to do.

4. Pray For Wisdom And Revelation

We need the strength and wisdom of God to help us advance. If you don't pray, you are not going to gain understanding into what is going on.

5. Make A Choice

In the end, don't be afraid to apply your own Spirit-empowered experiences, knowledge and reasoning. In the end, a decision simply has to be made.