Whatever goes around comes around. This little “ism” has rung true since time in memorial. The consequences, both good and bad, of our decisions always find their way back. With the inception of recorded media, and more recently the internet, if someone said it, odds are high that it was recorded and remains in posterity. Politicians are most notably susceptible to this dilemma. “I was for the war before I was against it” is one quote by a particular senator several years ago that comes to mind. It wasn’t an issue of principle on where the senator stood on war, it’s more the consequence of bad decision making and looking foolish in the backtracking. Back in the 80s, there was cultural watershed moment of bad decision making when Coke introduced “new Coke.” It was a marketing debacle that cost millions and created public outrage…and in some cases, panic.
Nowadays, with instant news coverage 24/7, the necessity of thought before making a decision is paramount. Sometimes decisions have to be made quickly because of the urgency of the situation. But even in the most extreme cases, there must be some rationale or data point that must be considered in order to act. When it comes to our walk with God, the same care and consideration must be given. Several years ago, “What would Jesus do” was a popular saying. While perhaps the phrase was commercialized, the intent rings true. Paul wrote to the church at Galatia, warning them that God cannot be mocked. Nothing happens in a vacuum. If we make bad decisions, bad things tend to be the outcome. It may take time, but it does come back. Conversely, however, making good decisions (to please the Spirit) will also bring consequences…good ones. It is easy to underestimate the number of decisions we make in a day. From the mundane to life-altering, we are making decisions. Paul’s advice: make good decisions that will honor God and the blessings will follow. The Bible is full of examples of good decision making and bad decision making. Our life is the culmination of the decisions we make. And when the Bible is our standard, our lives will be richer, fuller, and blessed.
Nowadays, with instant news coverage 24/7, the necessity of thought before making a decision is paramount. Sometimes decisions have to be made quickly because of the urgency of the situation. But even in the most extreme cases, there must be some rationale or data point that must be considered in order to act. When it comes to our walk with God, the same care and consideration must be given. Several years ago, “What would Jesus do” was a popular saying. While perhaps the phrase was commercialized, the intent rings true. Paul wrote to the church at Galatia, warning them that God cannot be mocked. Nothing happens in a vacuum. If we make bad decisions, bad things tend to be the outcome. It may take time, but it does come back. Conversely, however, making good decisions (to please the Spirit) will also bring consequences…good ones. It is easy to underestimate the number of decisions we make in a day. From the mundane to life-altering, we are making decisions. Paul’s advice: make good decisions that will honor God and the blessings will follow. The Bible is full of examples of good decision making and bad decision making. Our life is the culmination of the decisions we make. And when the Bible is our standard, our lives will be richer, fuller, and blessed.