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When and When Not to Make A Decision

"My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."

James 1:19-20

I've learned from experience not to make decisions when I'm emotional, because nine times out of ten, it will likely not only be the wrong decision, but a decision I will come to regret. Last night I went to bed wrestling with a decision and woke up with that same decision on my mind. Since I was emotional last night, I decided to do the one thing that always works; I decided to pray. Even though I haven't made up my mind yet, I know I can always be guided in the right direction when it comes to talking to and trusting God. Even when I don't understand or like what's going on in and around my life. 

You may be wrestling with a decision that erupts your emotions like a volcano every time you think about it. If that's your experience, let me give you some godly advice: don't let your decision be overwhelmed and/or dictated by how you feel. Take a step back if necessary and set aside time to pray and seek God's direction. That way, when the decision is made, you will know that you took the right course of action. Statements from Mr. Bertrand Russell (a British philosopher and mathematician) can be helpful when making a difficult decision. Mr. Russell was one of many who believed that, within reason, intelligence can help manage/control our emotions. With that belief, Bertrand taught that we should never make permanent decisions based on temporary feelings, because feelings are constantly changing. You don't want to make life-changing decisions when you are experiencing a roller coaster of emotions.     

As you set aside time to prepare for what life has in store for you today, please carry this Discipleship Devotional in your spirit, heart, and mind. Remember the words of Barbara Jordan, who said, "It is reason, and not passion, which must guide our deliberations, guide our debate, and guide our decision." 

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