I saw a commercial this morning who was selling a financial planning program to help you save for your retirement.  Their tag line, Don’t Make the Future You Hate You, made me think about the tag line from a spiritual perspective.  

Our lives are a culmination of the decisions we make each day. From the seemingly insignificant choices to the life-altering ones, every decision shapes our present reality and influences our future. It’s essential to approach decision-making with wisdom and discernment, considering the long-term implications and seeking guidance from God’s Word. 

Our decisions have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond ourselves. Whether big or small, the choices we make not only impact our future selves but also set the course for others. Just as a stone creates ripples in a pond, our decisions create waves that affect our relationships, opportunities, and overall well-being. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 says,” 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.” 

James 1:5 tells us,” If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” 

The Bible provides guidance on how we can insure we are making wise decisions: 

1. Seek God’s Wisdom: Before making any decision, seek God’s wisdom through prayer and meditation on His Word. 
2. Consider the Consequences: Evaluate the potential outcomes and long-term effects of your decisions, considering how they align with God’s principles and purposes. Image what thoughts Moses had as he thought through his decision of leading the Israelites out of Egypt and to the promised land. (Exodus 3:10)
3. Seek Counsel: Seek advice from wise and trusted individuals who can offer perspective and guidance. 
4. Listen to Your Conscience: Pay attention to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and your inner conscience, guiding you in the right direction. I think of Ruth and her decision to stay with Naomi (Ruth 1:16)
 
Good decisions are characterized by wisdom, discernment, and alignment with God’s will. They bring peace, joy, and fruitfulness, and they contribute to your growth and well-being. 

Because God gives us free will to make our own decisions, with or without the guidance of The Holy Spirit, we often find ourselves making bad decisions.  If you’ve made bad decisions, remember that God is forgiving, and His grace is sufficient. Confess your mistakes to God, seek His forgiveness, and learn from your experiences. Additionally, seek reconciliation with others affected by your decisions, extending grace and seeking forgiveness where necessary. Always remember Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”  Even when we make poor decisions, God can use them for good.

According to Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God so many great things planned for our lives.  If we believe that why would we want to go our own way and do our own thing to railroad the good things God has for us.  The word “plans” in Jeremiah 29:11 is translated from the Hebrew word “machashabah,” which also means thoughts or purposes. This word is also used in Isaiah 55:9, “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” God’s plans are higher than ours.

As we navigate life’s choices, let us be mindful of the impact our decisions have on ourselves and others. Let us seek God’s wisdom, trust in His guidance, and make decisions that honor Him. And if we falter, let us turn to God in repentance, trusting in His forgiveness and grace to lead us forward on the path of righteousness.