Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Getting through life's intersections

Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always (Psalm 105:4).

It can be instructive watching how drivers deal with an intersection. Some creep up to the corner slowly; others sit at the intersection for so long that you wonder if they’re ever going to move. Some jam on the brakes at the last second, then stomp on the accelerator as they take off again; others barely slow down—they just roll through the intersection regardless of what might be coming. And then there are those who do as they were taught—they stop completely, they look both ways, and then they move on.

These behaviors illustrate the different ways people deal with making decisions. Some are exceedingly cautious; seeing a possible decision coming up, they slow down in an effort to put off facing it for as long as possible. When making a decision can no longer be avoided, they examine every possible outcome over and over, continually looking left and right for the slightest hint of danger. Fear of proceeding nearly paralyzes them. Others are reckless; either they are in a hurry or they simply don’t fear the consequences of their actions. Some come rushing up to a point of decision, give the situation only a moment’s thought, then plunge on ahead; others just charge through life, trusting in their instincts to keep them safe.

But God’s way is different. He does not want us to be terrified of each decision; such behavior shows that we do not trust Him to guide us or protect us. Nor does He want us charging through life without being cautious; since we are sinners, our first impulses are often the wrong ones. When faced with a decision, Jesus wants you to consider the situation carefully: what are your options? Do any of the choices violate God’s rules? (If you’re not sure, spend some time with the Bible or speak with your pastor). What are the potential benefits of each option? Of the possible outcomes, are there some that might result in pain of some kind—physical, emotional or spiritual damage, either to yourself or to others? Once you have looked carefully at the situation, it is time to pray—pray that the Spirit of God would lead you to the best path. Then give God a little time; don’t be in such a hurry that you cannot feel which way God is nudging you. At the same time, don’t ever be afraid to make a decision and proceed—remember, whenever you choose badly, Jesus is there to forgive you and help you pick up the pieces for another go.

Blog Top Sites
Blog Directory & Search engine
Blog Directory