We are faced with a myriad of choices every single day – from what to eat for breakfast to what kind of coffee to order from Starbucks. Some choices are trivial, while others are tragic, if we make a mistake. Buying the wrong coffee drink is not as damaging compared to placing our money in the wrong investment.
But in making decisions, here’s a principle I’d like to share:
When values are clear, decisions are simpler.
Simpler doesn’t mean easier. But when our priorities are in place, then the decisions will be plain and straightforward.
Allow me to illustrate.
For me, family time is a clear value. Since the Christmas parties in Manila have started, how I wish I can attend all of them. There are many friends both from grade school and high school I haven’t seen in a long time. Relatives who are from out of town are setting up reunions left and right. Moreover, there are many parties from the different departments and ministries from the church.
But if I go to every one of them, that would mean, I would be out many nights in December. Advent nights would be missed, certain Christmas family traditions would be dropped, and dinner times with the kids would be compromised.
Another example is in the area of finances. If education is a value, then buying the new iPhone would come in second to paying your son’s tuition fee.
If relationship with God is a value, then spending the first moments after you wake up connecting with Him through His Word and prayer will be a priority rather than checking your Instagram or Twitter.
Simpler doesn’t mean easier. Saying no to friends’ Christmas parties is hard. Sticking with your jurassic Nokia 5110 (haha) instead of buying a new iPhone is torture. Stopping yourself from getting lost in the cyberworld early in the morning before connecting with Jesus is quite a challenge these days. But because the value is clear, then the decisions are simpler.
As we begin this week, may we remember our highest value – Jesus.
As Pastor Joey Bonifacio would say, “God who is the most valuable so valued you that He gave us Jesus, who is the most valuable to Him.”
And as we put Him first, remember what Proverbs 3:6 says, “In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success.” (TLB)
Have a great week!
i