Chapter One
Session 1
The Best Question Ever
INTRODUCTION
Every time we make a decision, it is preceded by a series of questions.
Sometimes we ask them out loud; sometimes we simply process them
in our subconscious. We ask questions like "How much can I afford?"
"What are the risks?" "How will this feel?" "How much will I make?"
"How much could I lose?" "What are my chances?" Whether you
realize it or not, the questions you ask yourself eventually determine
your decision.
As a general rule, people operate by two primary tenets: First, we
want to get the most out of life; and second, we want to avoid getting
into trouble. Therefore, as we evaluate our options in a decision, we
tend to focus on whether or not our choices will violate any rules or
commandments. If they don't, we often assume they are acceptable.
Whether it's a financial decision, a moral choice, a business move, or a
relationship, our tendency is to see how close we can get to the edge-and
then make our decision accordingly.
But with this approach, many Christians simply ask the wrong
questions. According to Scripture, the question is not whether something
is moral, ethical, legal, or harmful. For Christians, there's another
question that's even more important than those. In this session, we'll
discover the Best Question Ever when it comes to making decisions
that can impact our lives.
Rules of Engagement
Imagine a major magazine is doing a celebrity profile of you. They are
collecting interesting tidbits about you that capture who you are and
how you think. They want to know your favorite food, your fondest
memory, your philosophy for relationships, and your ideas on politics.
As part of their brief bio, they ask you to name the three criteria
you use to make all your personal decisions. How would you answer?
Write these three criteria in the space below. Discuss your answers
among the group.
(Example: 1. Does it leave the world better than I found it?
2. What does the Bible say about it? 3. Is it the right thing
at this point in my life?)
VIDEO NOTES
From the video message, fill in the blanks.
1. The question we must begin to ask is: "Is it the
______________________ thing for me to do?"
"If you're asking the
wrong question,
it doesn't matter what
the answer is."
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Take a few moments to discuss your answers to these questions with
the group.
1. We all make dumb decisions. Give examples of some of
the really dumb decisions you've seen people make.
2. What are some of the reasons we make unwise decisions?
3. Recall a wise decision you have made and how that
impacted your life.
4. What is a foolish decision you have made that caused you
regret?
5. What decision are you considering now, and how has this
discussion affected your thinking?
6. In what specific area of your life do you need the wisdom
of God?
MILEPOSTS
* When making decisions, our tendency is to ask, "What
is acceptable?"
* Paul encourages his readers to ask, "What is the wise
thing to do?"
* The key to making wise decisions is to understand the
will of the Lord.
WHAT WILL YOU DO?
In the space below, list at least one decision you are considering now or
anticipate in the future. In response to this discussion, what will be your
criteria for deciding?
THINK ABOUT IT
If you had to name one specific area of your life in which you need the
wisdom of God, what would it be? Name one step you could take to
begin experiencing His wisdom in that area.
CHANGING YOUR MIND
As you become familiar with God's Word, it becomes easier to recall
His wisdom. There are verses at the end of each session that we hope
you will take time to commit to memory.
Be very careful, then, how you live-
not as unwise but as wise,
making the most of every opportunity,
because the days are evil.
Ephesians 5:15
(Continues.)
