Praying, Decision-Making

I've got a friend who's making some decisions in ministry - possibly leaving one ministry for another, knowing that might be where God's leading but also knowing that folks will be hurting from the loss and unsure of direction. I've never seen a really good transition in ministry - where you're going isn't as good as it might've seemed at first, and the folks left behind have a tough time moving forward and grieving properly. Staying put has it's own turmoil of "what if?" and "what now?" questions.

So we're praying that he & his family will make the "right" decision - what do they want in their heart? I was telling him that we tend to put too much emphasis on "I want to feel a peace about this". What if "peace" isn't the right thing to look for when making one of those huge change-my-life decisions? Satan can stop beating you up, and that's "peace" - but if you make a decision that's going towards godliness and holiness and usefulness in the Kingdom, expect something to "disrupt the peace" and make it seem like you're making the wrong choice. Ever been there?

Leaving ministry should be difficult - it shows that you've done a good job and that relationships have been real and flow deep. Not leaving, making the decision to stay, has it's own turmoil of "what if" questions and such. Either way, if we've prayed and if we're really trusting God and growing in Christ, then "ask whatever you wish" - you can make the decision you want to make because you're thinking with a mind being renewed and transformed in Jesus. And even if you make a mistake - make it at full speed, knowing that His promises are sure and full of hope.