DECISIONS THAT GLORIFY GOD

The Rev. Tracey Russell

Oct 26

2 min read

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This weekend was the Holy Spirit retreat for the Alpha Course that Trinity Church is running. In the last video we watched, we talked about how God guides us. Nicky Gumbel gives a very practical list of ways God guides us. Jamey and I have used this list, in its entirety, to make big, life-changing decisions. We found it to be very helpful in trying to make decisions that glorify God, so I wanted to share it with all of you.

Alpha teaches that there are five main ways in which God guides us. Helpfully, they all begin with the letters CS.

The five CS’s are:

Commanding Scripture (what does the Bible say/teach?)

For example, if you are trying to decide whether you should work as an assassin, the command of Scripture is: You Shall not murder. (Exodus 20.13)

So no, it is not God’s plan for you to become an assassin.

Compelling Spirit (how is the Holy Spirit leading?)

When you pray, what do you hear the Holy Spirit saying?

Counsel of the Saints (seek the advice and prayers of other Christians)

Jamey and I did this when we were trying to decide about moving to PA for Seminary. Having others confirm in prayer what we had heard made the decision clear.

Common Sense (God guides our common sense and reason)

We don’t abandon our intellect and reason when we become Christians. Sometimes God asks us to take a risk, but we can always use reason and common sense when making decisions.

Circumstantial Signs (providential/confirming signs)

Again, from my own experience, when Jamey and I said yes to seminary, all the pieces fell into place. We rented out our house in Rhode Island, found a rental in Ambridge, applied and were accepted to Seminary, and found a school and childcare for our kids….all in the space of 3 weeks. Things just fell into place for us, it was uncanny. It was God confirming our decision.,

In grace and peace,

Tracey+

Joseph Mercier

O Holy Spirit, beloved of my soul, I adore you. Enlighten me, guide me, strengthen me, console me. Tell me what I should do; give me your orders. I promise to submit myself to all that you desire of me and to accept all that you permit to happen to me. Let me only know your will. Amen.