Book Review: Demystifying Decision-Making by Aimee Joseph

I decided to set the goal of reading and reviewing at least one book per month this year, one Christian non-fiction book per month (see What is Spiritual Growth). I came upon this book in particular because it is part of how I am keeping myself accountable… I signed up for the Crossway (publishers) book review program. The available books were not generally in line with what I read, but that too was part of my reasoning behind my reading goal this year. So, when I chose Demystifying Decision-Making: A Practical Guide I had no particular decision in mind, nor any thought as to how I might grow in my Christian walk.

As I read Demystifying Decision-Making, I was surprised to find how aligned the book was with my word of the year, trust. I can’t imagine why I was surprised since making decisions is based on trusting that we follow God’s will for our lives. But I just hadn’t considered it.

Cultivate Dependence on God

‘Whatever the situation that compelled you to read this book, God intends to use it to cultivate your ability to wait in humble dependence upon him,’1 Aimee wrote. This dependence, or trust, is what I loved seeing. Ms. Joseph explains the theology behind God being more interested in the process of decision-making than the outcome, the process being that we lean on him. This is the part that really settled within me and forced me beyond the questioning of my decisions and put me at peace with the bigger decisions and even the daily decisions of what to have for dinner and how much laundry to get done.

However, the author doesn’t stop at the nebulous ‘trust’ that we all struggle with. She outlines several biblical tools and secular methods that can help us parse through our decisions and hear God’s will for specific occasions more clearly.

Holy Spirit as Guide

I found I wanted to mark, highlight, or underline a number of sections (I don’t usually do this – having grown up with public school texts I never formed the habit since we weren’t allowed to in school!). In the chapter titled, ‘Theological Foundations for Decision’, the author addresses the Old Testament tools that were used, then goes on to exalt the Holy Spirit as God in us to guide us. I have longed to learn more about the Holy Spirit and was also pleased to see this.

Influences on Decision Making

This is followed by a look at influences on our decision making, including interesting culture observations, all while encouraging gospel influence. The cultural observations were particularly interesting, what with having lived overseas for the last 19 years. I truly appreciated the portions on decisions in situations of all things being equal, dealing with our poor past decisions, and how our passions may also play a part in our decision making.

5 stars for Demystifying Decision-Making

I appreciated the practical, relatable examples throughout the book, as well as the numerous verses noted in each chapter. Chapter titles were a bit academic, but the writing was very approachable and never dry. I wish the charts included in the book were inserted at the chapter or referenced, as I found them only as I was flipping through the final pages. They would possibly be missed by those who don’t read the back matter of books (um, usually that’s me), yet they would also help tie some of the chapters together, especially the secular and gospel-centered practical portions.

I know I will refer back to this book when I have ‘big’ decisions to make in the future. The practical tips and methods that she describes will certainly be a help.

What decision are you struggling with today? Note in the comments or send me a message so I can pray for you.

1 Aimee Joseph. Demystifying Decision-Making (Kindle Locations 419-420). Crossway.

I received a review copy of this book from Crossway in exchange for an honest review.