MAKING GOOD CHOICES

"Just Because You Can, Doesn't Mean You Should." That was the title to a sermon I wrote several years ago about choices we make in a privileged society.

That sentiment is still valid, whether it's about things we can do, things we say, or how we spend our time. Just because we can do it, doesn't mean we should. In life we will see open doors before us, but that doesn't mean we should go through them all. We need the wisdom and the guidance of God's Word to help us decide which to take.

We who live in a wealthy nation have more choices, and the more we have, the more apt we may be to make bad ones. Our computer can take us to many places; should we therefore go there? Just because it feels good, should we do it? Just because it tastes good, is affordable or is fun, should we go there?

When you and I have enough time, money, energy or skills, it is tempting to think we can do whatever we wish without facing the consequences. But we must use our head in life. God tells us in Proverbs 15:21, "Folly delights a man who lacks judgment, but a man of understanding keeps a straight course." We must take care in what choices we make, for the consequences may be with us for years to come. 

A young man struggles to grasp his coffee cup because of an accident on a motorcycle. A young unmarried woman clutches her kleenex as she tells of her pregnancy. A young man looks pleadingly as he tells of his drug useage. A middle aged man stares blankly at the floor as he relates his financial woes. An older man wonders aloud what really led to his divorce. 

With all the choices we have, you and I must seek the guidance of God's Word. We have forgiveness by faith in Jesus Christ, but He still wishes us to pay attention to what He says. Just because the Lord doesn't stop us from doing something, it doesn't mean He wants us to continue. To discern what choices to make, we need to "Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." (Matthew 6:33)

May God lead you to good choices in 2008,