Making Mature Decisions

Unlike the Old Testament law, the New Testament does not rely on long lists of specific “dos” and “don’ts.” While it contains clear commands, we must make most of our daily decisions by applying biblical principles.

For example, the Bible has no specific command saying, “Do not cheat on your tax forms.” However, it does clearly teach the principles of honesty, fairness, and paying taxes to whom they are due.

Similarly, the Bible does not list measurements for our clothing. Instead, it commands us to be modest, to guard against inciting others to lust, and to dress in a way that reflects godliness rather than worldliness. By applying these core principles, we can easily determine what is appropriate to wear.

Looking for Loopholes

When defending a questionable habit, people often argue, “But the Bible doesn’t say not to!” But is God’s Word meant to be parsed for loopholes?

We cannot rely on technicalities to excuse behavior that violates the spirit of Christ.

In fact, some things that are normally harmless can become wrong depending on the situation. For instance, the apostle Paul explained that eating meat was not inherently sinful, but he would choose to avoid it if it harmed a fellow Christian:

“Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.” (1 Corinthians 8:13)

Growing Toward Spiritual Maturity

To grow as Christians, we must learn to use God’s Word to make mature choices. This means choosing what to pursue—or avoid—based on the overall principles of holiness.

The Bible does not list which movies, books, or songs are acceptable. Instead, it gives us a filter for our minds:

“Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)

If our entertainment doesn’t fit this description, a mature Christian will choose to look elsewhere.

Beyond the Checklist

It can be frustrating when the New Testament doesn’t give a simple rule for every situation. However, God is not looking for people who merely check off a list of rules.

His goal is to transform us from the inside out into Christ-like people who genuinely want to do what is holy, godly, and good.

To achieve this, we must let biblical principles guide our thinking, not just rely on explicit commands. (Even the Old Testament law was summarized by the principles of loving God and loving neighbor, as seen in Matthew 22:34-40).

There is no single chapter in the Bible that lists all of these principles. Instead, they are woven throughout the entire scripture and illustrated perfectly in the life of Jesus.

By studying the Bible daily and practicing what we learn, we train our minds to think like Christ. Over time, making godly decisions will become second nature.