We know that every choice brings consequences. That is why we must be prepared to take responsibility not only for the choice made, but also for its results. Even if we are free to choose, we will never be free of consequences, be they good or bad, because they will inevitably come.
This reminds me of Jeremiah’s story. Together with thousands of Jews, Jeremiah had been imprisoned by the Babylonians, as he himself had prophesied. However, the captain of the guard, believing in the prophecies that Jeremiah had previously uttered, released him from jail and gave him freedom to choose, giving him the following options: He could travel to Babylon and stay under his protection, or go wherever he wished, even to return to Judah, which was destroyed, and live with the poor who had remained there (Jer. 39:10).
This was a difficult choice, which would certainly have consequences: if he went to Babylon he would have peace and comfort, but he would be considered a traitor by the Jews, if he returned to Judah he would remain poor and rejected. In Jeremiah 40:1-6 it is reported that he was slow to give an answer, probably because he was pondering about it.
Come to think of it, it is no different with us. Many choices are neither easy nor simple, because they can have a great impact on our lives and the lives of other people. Our God loves us and always guides us, that’s why He left in the Bible about how to make good choices. Now check 4 Bible guidelines on how to make choices:
1. Identify clearly what the choice is about
But today I am freeing you from the chains on your wrists. Come with me to Babylon, if you like, and I will look after you; but if you do not want to, then don’t come. Look, the whole country lies before you; go wherever you please.
Jeremiah 40:4
Try to clearly identify what the choice is, as well as the possible alternatives. When you have no focus, you spend too much energy and time unnecessarily.
2. Analyze who else might be affected by the decision
The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives.
Proverbs 16:17
Jeremiah knew that as a prophet of Judah, his decision would not only affect himself but would have repercussions for both the faithful remnant and the unbelieving Jews.
3. Seek advice in the right place
For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.
Proverbs 11:14
To be counseled, look for someone suitable, a God-fearing Christian who may even have experienced a circumstance similar to yours.
4. Pay attention to what the Bible says about this matter
Whoever keeps commandments keeps their life, but whoever shows contempt for their ways will die.
Proverbs 19:16
In making a choice reflect: Is there any clear objection from God to that choice? Is there an explicit command in the Bible?
Conclusion
In all this, seek God’s guidance in prayer and do not trust your own heart, for it is deceitful as it is written in Jeremiah 17:9.
God bless you!
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