From Sacred Rhythms by Ruth Haley Barton as referenced in Pastor Denise's sermon on August 4, 2019
- Consolation and desolation.
- Which choice brings the deepest sense of life, inner peace and freedom (John 10:10; 2 Corinthians 3:17)? Is there a growing sense of wholeness, authenticity, congruence with who I am in God? Or might this decision draw me away from God?
- Scripture:
- Is there a particular Scripture that God is bringing to me relative to this choice? What is it saying to me?
- Life of Christ:
- Is this choice consistent with what I know of the mind and heart of Christ and redemptive purposes in the world?
- Character growth and development:
- How will this direction nurture the fruit of the Spirit in me--particularly the fruit of love? What does love call for? What is God doing in my character and spiritual growth? Will this choice continue to nurture this growth?
- Eternal perspective:
- Does this choice reflect the value of what is eternal and permanent and holds the deepest value rather than what is transient and impermanent? On my deathbed, which choice would I wish I had made?
- Community:
- How does this choice fit with others’ observations of who I am and what God is doing in my life? Am I willing to open every facet of this decision to a trusted spiritual friend for their wisdom and insight? Is there anything in the broad tradition of the Christian faith that might inform my decision?.