When in Doubt, Back Out

Originally posted on October 9, 2015

Several years ago, I heard a sermon. I don’t remember much about the entire message, but there was one phrase the preacher said that has stuck with me ever since: “When in doubt, back out.” That simple statement has made a significant impact on me and my children. In fact, Landon was the one who started saying it regularly, and I quickly followed. It’s become a guiding principle in how we make decisions—though, like most things, it’s often easier said than done.

So, what does “When in doubt, back out” mean to us? It’s like taking “What Would Jesus Do?” (WWJD) a step further. Asking “What Would Jesus Do?” is a great starting point for navigating daily decisions, but there are times when the answer isn’t clear. Sometimes, we may not have a direct comparison in the Bible, or the situation might be unclear or controversial. This is where “When in doubt, back out” comes into play.

If you're unsure how God would feel about a particular decision or action, why take the risk? If you know something isn’t sinful, but you’re unsure if the opposite might be, why do it at all? This principle can apply to controversial issues—things that some Christians believe are fine, while others disagree. Unless you know for sure, why risk it?

But this approach isn’t just for the big decisions. It can be used for everyday situations, like deciding whether to hang out with certain people or go to certain places. Should you watch a particular TV show or movie? If you’re uncertain about how these things might affect your walk with God, why not step back and choose something else?

It can be hard to take a stand when the world around you is telling you something is okay. But this simple phrase—“When in doubt, back out”—can serve as a helpful guide in making decisions. Our ultimate goal as Christians should be to please our Heavenly Father.

So, in closing, I encourage you to, even in moments of uncertainty, strive to make choices that honor and please the Lord.