Decisions, Decisions

The other evening I found myself craving a snack. I try not to eat before bedtime, but when I really find myself struggling, I try to opt for something healthy. Peanuts are a good option, right? Maybe for you, but peanuts tend to wreak havoc on my metabolism; I toss and turn most of the night if I eat them before bed. Does that make eating peanuts before bed wrong? For me, it is. I have people depending on me throughout the day. It's wrong to choose something that disrupts my rest and causes me to shirk my responsibilities or spend the day being crabby to everyone. Our cravings --and whether we indulge them-- can impact those around us. We might crave a beer, although we've had too many already. We might crave a nice looooong walk, although we promised our spouse we'd paint this weekend. We might desire rest on a workday, or a vacation when we're broke, or a super double hot fudge sundae when we're supposed to be watching our sugar intake. None of those things is inherently wrong to want or even do, but context and timing are important. Context and timing can be a huge part of the decision we make.

There's a flip side to all of this, as well. There are those who remain so paralyzed with fear, they do nothing. They are worried every decision they make will offend, disappoint, or face the condemnation of those watching. Like someone terrified of wearing white shoes after Labor Day lest they be judged, they choose instead to bow to the court of public opinion before ever leaving the house. They think too highly of the opinions of others. And while the opinions of others can be important, knowing where to draw the line is crucial if we wish to move forward. People mired in what others think rarely stand up or stand out.

We find ourselves in a time where decisions are not so cut and dried. The dissemination of information is easier than it has ever been. Any joker with internet access can spread information worldwide in seconds (no, the irony is not lost on me), and bad info travels just as readily as good. We seem to have plenty of bad information. The factors that determine our personal decisions are not, however, simply based on what we read or hear from news outlets or social media. They are based on life experiences and the goals we have set for ourselves and our families. They are based on fears that may or may not be valid but are real to us. Our decisions may be grounded in political affiliations, but no one affiliation is more or less noble than the other. We may be compelled to choose as we do because of morals, upbringing, beliefs, spheres of influence, vocation, or economic status. 

The point of my rant? Good to be right in the things we do, but how much better to be righteous? No one wants to make the wrong decision, especially when it comes to the important issues of raising our children, or continuing in good health, or remaining employed, or caring for our neighbors. However, "right" may have more to do with the outcome of your discussions with God than it does, your discussions with peers. I will choose what I believe God says is right; that, too, might mean what God says is "right for me," a personal sort of right. Like no peanuts before bedtime. 

• Regardless of our choices, it's important to show one another grace in theirs. 
• Place the greatest value on what God is saying through His Word and what the Holy Spirit is speaking into our hearts. 
• Consult with our families and take into consideration the opinions or expertise of those we trust. 
• Comply with the law, to consider the impact of our decision on our neighbors and our country, but to seek obedience to God above all else. 
• Once we reach a decision, evaluate it periodically and go through these steps, adjusting to changes if necessary. 
• Pray for others as they make decisions. 
• Show grace. (yes, I said it again --we need to be reminded as often as possible)