C S Lewis once said: “We are not living in a world where all roads are radii of a circle and where all, if followed long enough, will therefore draw gradually nearer and finally meet at the centre: rather in a world where every road, after a few miles, forks into two, and each of those into two again, and at each fork you must make a decision.”
Decision time is that moment in time when the stage is set for action and the spotlight hits the individual about to make a choice. The world watches carefully to see how that decision is made, how it impacts others, and how it defines or changes direction. The decision will in many ways help “define” that person.
We are known by our choices and decisions—good and bad.
How do we make good decisions? How do we choose what is best for us, for our families, for those around us? Do our choices honor our Creator and represent him well? Do our decisions serve those we serve best?
In general terms, decision-making can be broken down into three vital steps: clearly identifying the problem, looking for solutions and then implementing an action plan.
Our choices tell the world who we are, what we stand for and what our motives and intentions are.
The choices we make determine our direction, which means our success or failure. As decisions go, so goes an individual or family or group go
Decisions reveal more than just direction. They reveal our heart: our passion, vision, calling, motives… They also reveal undesirable traits such as control, manipulation or insecurity.
What do our choices say about us?
The way we make our choices reveal our values. If you value openness, you will allow for input from others. If you value input from those you respect, you will take the time to consult them in your choices. If you value relationships, you will seek to protect your relationships in the choices you make.
Our choices paint a picture of our worldview to those around us. Consider decisions made by dictators, democracies, or hippies. They have their own unique flavor and point to their specific worldview.
What do our choices say about our beliefs?
We are free to make choices and decisions, but we are not free from the consequences of those decisions. Freedom to choose is linked intimately to the need to understand consequences of our choices, as well as the need to take responsibility for out choices. All consequences have long-term effects–good or bad.
Are we free to chose the things that might hurt those around us? How much are we willing to sacrifice when we make a choice? Do we know what the consequences of our choices are? Can we take responsibility for them? These are some of the realities and challenges we face with every choice we make.
I believe our Creator is an integral part of our lives and choices. We can look to him for wisdom and guidance. He does engage with us in dynamic ways.
As his children, our choices matter! Do my choices honor my Creator and represent Him well?
Whatever my situation, am I choosing well?
~shini abraham, ©2014, duco divina – contemplative doodling
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