“We take this course so that no one should blame us about this generous gift that is being administered by us, for we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord’s sight but also in the sight of man.” (2 Corinthians 8:20–21, ESV)
Overwhelmed Yet?
Who would have thought there were so many things to consider when making an important decision? For some, this long list of questions could overwhelm them. Some could find themselves saying, “Who would actually ask all of these questions for a decision? It’s impossible to consider these questions for every decision.” And they would be right.
Obviously, we cannot intentionally filter every single decision through this list of questions. It would paralyze you with indecision. However, the goal is to get these questions—and thought processes—deep down in your bones. That way you begin to filter decisions through these questions without even having to think about it—you just do it naturally.
Also, there are some really big decisions that loom over us, causing us to wrestle for an answer. In those circumstances, it is NOT overwhelming to have a long list of questions to help you think through an issue. It’s actually comforting because you know that you are being thoughtful and thorough in coming to a conclusion.
Paul’s Reasoning
As I studied the various decisions make by people in the Bible, this one stood out to me—especially Paul’s reasoning behind the decision. He says that he is making this decision because he wants to do what is honorable in the Lord’s sight—which we expect him to say. Yet, he also says he is making the decision because he wants to do what is honorable in the sight of men. That’s what caught me off guard.
Pleasing Man?
This is the same Paul who boldly said, “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” (Galatians 1:10, ESV). So, we know that Paul is not trying to seek the approval of man. If he was seeking the approval of man, he wouldn’t be a servant of God. Yet, he still wants to make a decision honorable in the sight of man.
Later on in 1 Corinthians, Paul makes another statement about pleasing men: “Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved.” (1 Corinthians 10:32–33, ESV). Isn’t that interesting? Paul just said that he tries to please EVERYONE in EVERYTHING he does. This is the same Paul that is thrown into prison for preaching the gospel; the same Paul that intentionally said something to cause division among the Pharisees and Saducees (Acts 23:6–7).
Unhindered Witness
Yet, there’s a principle here that we need to consider. As we make decisions, it is important that we consider the way they will appear to those around us. In 2 Corintians 8, Paul is talking about transporting a large amount of money. If he were to transport that money alone, he could be wrongly accused of false motives or skimming off the top. So, he has someone else come with him so that people on the outside would see that he made an honorable decision. As he explains in 2 Corinthians 10, he doesn’t want anything to hinder his witness to unbelievers. That’s why he wanted to make a decision honorable in the sight of men.
Some More Questions
So, that brings us to the point of questions to ask:
Is this decision honorable in the sight of the Lord?
Is this decision honorable in the sight of men?
Is this decision going to possibly hinder my witness to non-believers?
As I make this decision, have I worked diligently to please everyone in everything that they may be saved?
While I attempt to make a decision that is honorable in the sight of men, am I more concerned about pleasing God?
What aspects of this decision may not seem honorable to men?
Am I only thinking about how this decision will impact me, or many?
There are more questions that could be asked. I’ll leave you to think of them. As you ponder these questions, stay in prayer, trust the Spirit, and keep your eyes on Jesus.