Three guiding principles

I'm trying to make some big decisions about my present and therefore my future. David Wray was helpful in pushing me toward clarifying my major principles. Everyone operates with some guiding principles and makes decisions based on whether certain options are in line with those principles. My three guiding principles are as follows, in order.

1. Whatever I do, God must be involved. I have been called to ministry, given talents, and have given my life as a Christian. Whatever I might decide must be faithful to God and make good use of his gifts.

2. Whatever I do should contribute to the health of my family relationships. My relationship with my wife and children must be valued, and whatever I decide must be faithful to my family.

3. Whatever I do, I must be financially responsible. I simply don't believe in debt for the sake of short term gain. I also want to take care of my family's financial needs. Financial responsibility also means simplicity and stewardship.

Other principles like "don't quit" and "take time for rest" are helpful, but must be used under the other three. If not quitting means trouble for my family, or unnecessary debt, and the like, or if "resting" means going to the lake four times per week at the expense of my children... You get the point.

We'll see where this goes as things unfold.