My Choice

Michael W.
Nov 15
3 min read

Choosing Wisely

Life is a series of choices, isn't it? From the moment we wake up, we're faced with decisions, big and small. What to wear, what to eat, how to spend our time, and even how to respond to challenges. And while some choices seem trivial, others carry significant weight, shaping our paths and influencing our futures. As believers, we are called to make these choices wisely, guided by God's Word and the wisdom of the Holy Spirit.

The Bible is replete with stories and teachings about choices and their consequences. Think of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, faced with the ultimate choice: obedience or disobedience. Their decision, though seemingly simple at the time, had profound and lasting repercussions for all of humanity.

Fast forward to the Israelites at Mount Sinai. They were given a clear choice by God through Moses: "See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. For I command you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, and to keep his commands, decrees and laws; then you will live and increase, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land you are entering to possess." (Deuteronomy 30:15-16). The choice was clear, and the outcomes were laid bare.

So, how do we make wise choices in our own lives today? Here are a few principles to consider:

1. Seek God's Guidance (Proverbs 3:5-6): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." This is foundational. Before making any significant decision, we should always turn to God in prayer, asking for His wisdom and direction. He sees the whole picture, even when we only see a small part.

2. Consult God's Word (Psalm 119:105): "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." The Bible is our ultimate guidebook. It provides principles, examples, and warnings that can illuminate our choices. When faced with a decision, ask yourself: What does the Bible say about this? Are there any commands or teachings that apply?

3. Consider the Consequences (Galatians 6:7-8): "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." Every choice has a consequence, whether immediate or delayed. A wise person considers the potential outcomes of their decisions, both for themselves and for others, and seeks to make choices that honor God and lead to life.

4. Discern Through Counsel (Proverbs 15:22): "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." While ultimate guidance comes from God, it's often wise to seek advice from trusted spiritual mentors, pastors, or godly friends. They can offer different perspectives, share their experiences, and help us see things we might have overlooked.

5. Trust in God's Sovereignty: Even after we've prayed, studied, and sought counsel, sometimes the path forward isn't perfectly clear. In these moments, we must trust in God's sovereignty. He can redeem even our less-than-perfect choices and work all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

Our lives are a testament to the choices we make. Each decision is an opportunity to honor God, grow in faith, and impact the world around us for good. Let us, therefore, choose wisely, always leaning on the One who holds our future in His hands.