When decisions are made, two outcomes are always plausible. The results may fall into the positive column of good choices made, or they may be grouped with the ongoing list of poor choices that lead to negative consequences. The line of demarcation depends on underlying factors involved in decision-making, such as our desires, the confirmation of pertinent information, and allowing reasonable time to consider the potential effects of a decision.
Unwanted repercussions are often the result of bad choices. Some decisions can even lead to life-or-death consequences. I am not trying to be ultra-dramatic. This example refers to individuals who wisely accept Jesus as Lord, or those who foolishly reject God’s gift of salvation.
God’s unmerited love and grace, given through His Son, provide eternal life in heaven. Those who reject God’s plan of forgiveness for their sins will suffer eternal damnation and be separated from Him forever—a fate worse than death.
(Acts 4:12), “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
This choice is the single most important decision a person will ever make in their lifetime. Their future beyond the grave depends on it. Every day, we make both large and small decisions. We were created to do so, having minds of our own. God allows us free will to choose as we please and to live with the consequences of those choices.
It is far more productive—and spiritually prosperous—to do things God’s way rather than maneuvering through life with reckless behavior that leaves numerous regrets in its wake. When making sensible decisions, it is advantageous in every way to obtain all pertinent information before “signing on the dotted line,” so to speak.
Facts usually speak for themselves and enhance our ability to choose wisely and confidently. This happens when we slow down and discipline ourselves to include God in our decision-making process.
Choices should be made with care and a well-thought-out plan before any final decision is reached. In most cases, 20/20 hindsight offers little help when poor decisions are made hastily and without a conscious effort to gather accurate information.
It is common for people to be led astray—believing they are doing the right thing when, in fact, they are being manipulated into doing the wrong thing. Scammers are everywhere, and they are skilled at what they do.
I am especially concerned when listening to the evening
news and hearing that identity theft is on the rise. Older, trusting
individuals in their later years are particularly vulnerable to being scammed
out of their life savings. This travesty is occurring at an alarming rate.
We must stay alert and sharp-minded to avoid becoming another statistic on the six o’clocknews because we allowed outside forces to beguile us. Seeking advice from someone knowledgeable can be invaluable during times of uncertainty.
(Proverbs 11:14), “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.”
Seeking reliable insight from others simply makes sense. If you are uncertain about what you are about to sign, or if you are asked to share personal information, it is wise to seek advice from family members, close friends, or an attorney with the experience to guide you appropriately.
It is better to remain vigilant and informed by trustworthy sources—those with peripheral vision who can notice the “fine print” we might overlook—rather than relying solely on our own limited perspective.
We must be careful not to fall prey to fraud, especially when pressured with statements suggesting we will lose out on a great opportunity if we do not act immediately. Urgency is often a red flag. It is far better to be safe than sorry.
Gaining the perspective of a knowledgeable and trustworthy individual brings peace of mind, knowing they have our best interests at heart.
Many people find themselves in a valley of despair after the results of poor choices fail to produce positive outcomes. Asking, “Why did I do that?” they realize the decision was made in haste, lacking careful thought—classic buyer’s remorse.
As stated earlier, taking time to examine a situation thoroughly and from every angle is essential. Depending on a person’s resilience, poor decisions may lead to deep emotional distress. But do they learn from it? I hope so—perhaps with God’s help.
Regret often walks hand-in-hand with the phrase, “I want it now.” People are prone to making decisions while in the valley—lacking counsel from those who could provide sound advice. The valley is no place to make life-changing decisions, except when it involves asking God to forgive our sins.
It is wiser to wait until we can clearly see where to place our next step rather than blindly forging ahead without the light of common sense illuminating our path. The mountaintop—where visibility is clear—is the better place to make decisions.
Patience truly is a virtue. It is a skill worth learning and a valuable safeguard against unnecessary regret.
www.wordsfrompapa.blogspot.com
Written by
Papa Boyd
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