Some people love to take charge and make decisions. Others hate it and avoid it at all costs. No matter what end of the spectrum you find yourself in, we all have to make decisions. Whether it’s as simple as, “Where will I take my family to eat tonight?” or a more significant question such as, “Who will I marry?” decisions, big and small alike, are very crucial in life. The most important decision one can make is accepting Jesus Christ as LORD and Savior. All other decisions don’t even compare to this one.

I believe Philippians 4:8 gives us an incredible framework for making decisions. Here we see eight characteristics that Paul is telling believers to “dwell on these things.” These can serve as a lens through which we filter and make God-honoring decisions.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy—dwell on these things. —Philippians 4:8 CSB

True: Am I prayerfully grounding this decision in the truth of God’s Word?

Honorable: Is this in line with Godly character?

Just: Will this encourage and help others?

Pure: Are my thoughts, motives, and actions genuine?

Lovely: Will this help build community?

Commendable: How will this affect my testimony?

Moral Excellence: Am I choosing best over good?

Praiseworthy: Who gets the credit—you or God?