Business leaders operate in a fast-paced world, where they are constantly faced with decisions. From small day-to-day choices to monumental decisions that have the potential to shape the future of their companies, a business leader’s ability to make confident and correct decisions is crucial. Still, the weight of these choices can feel overwhelming and it is not uncommon for business leaders to feel stress, doubt, or uncertainty as they are faced with a large quantity of decisions that impact their business and their employees. As a leader, making decisions is often the heart of the job, so the ability to make choices with confidence is very important.
The Importance Of Being A Confident Decision-Maker
What does it mean to be a confident decision-maker? A confident decision maker trusts their judgment and is willing to take responsibility for the outcomes of their choices. Turning to Scripture, Proverbs 16:9 reminds us that, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.“ This is an important verse that calls attention to the dynamics between our personal choices and God’s divine plan. It is important for business leaders to know where the role of prayer comes into play at work. Consider this: while you must be decisive in order to be a strong leader, seeking direction from the Lord’s wisdom can set you apart by offering peace and direction to your daily choices.
Pray About It: What Types Of Decisions Are The Most Challenging For You?
Some leaders are really good at making daily decisions, and others feel more confident, making large-scale choices. In your leadership role, you may find that some decisions are more difficult than others. From hiring choices to financial investments, or strategic directions to moral dilemmas, the more complex decisions have the potential for long-term consequences for your business’s stability, culture, and long-term success.
Recognizing your blind spots is important and pinning down the types of decisions that you struggle with can make a big difference in your leadership. Understanding your biases, perspectives, and experiences can help you better evaluate your judgment.
Remember, a confident decision maker trusts their judgment, so understanding your blind spots can make a big difference in your leadership. Psalm 139:23-24 says, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” While asking God to guide your decisions, you may start by asking God for wisdom about your blind spots.
The Role Of Prayer
Prayer offers us more than just confidence when making a tough decision. Christians know that prayer provides us with peace by inviting God into our lives. It also provides a deeper connection to God’s plan for you. Philippians 4:6 states, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Giving your worries to God through prayer is a practice we are called to throughout the Bible. Psalm 145:18 again reminds us, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth” and Romans 12:12 says, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
How Business Leaders Who Use Prayer in Their Decision-Making Make Better Business Choices
Incorporating prayer into the decision-making process can lead to better business choices. This practice is about asking for guidance and aligning your decisions with a greater purpose. James 1:5 offers a powerful promise: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” When we seek wisdom through prayer, leaders are more likely to make decisions that are ethical, just, and beneficial in the long term.
Prayer also encourages us to take a step back and consider the broader implications of our choices. Talking to God and asking for His peace and wisdom through praying helps leaders evaluate decisions based on long-term outcomes and God’s plan. Your prayer practices can lead to more sustainable business practices and stronger relationships with employees and peers while fostering a more cohesive and motivated team.
We should also consider how prayer can serve as a source of inspiration and creativity. By seeking the Lord’s guidance, leaders may find new solutions or ideas that they hadn’t considered before. The practice of praying about your work, and praying about your role as a leader also fosters a sense of accountability, as we are reminded that our actions and decisions have consequences not only for ourselves but for those we lead.
At Convene, we believe that prayer plays a huge role in a leader’s decision-making. It offers a path to confidence, clarity, peace, and wisdom, which allows leaders to navigate the complexities of their roles with confidence and humility. By seeking God’s guidance, leaders can make decisions that are not only sound but also aligned with a higher purpose, leading to success that is both meaningful and enduring. If you want to bring prayer into your decision-making and if you are seeking divine guidance in your business choices, join a Convene team!