What's Your Decision?

Pliny the Elder, was a Roman writer who lived during the same time period as Jesus. He told a story of the setting of an obelisk, which when erect would stand 99 feet tall. Twenty thousand workers where chosen to pull on the ropes and activate the hoisting apparatus. There was great responsibility and risk in the operation. Just one error could cause the obelisk to fall, ruining years of work.

The King demanded one act which insured the complete attention and best direction of the engineer. He ordered the engineer’s own son to be strapped to the apex of the obelisk, so that his heart as well as his head would be given to the task. (Pulpit Helps, August, 1992, p. 14.)

There are many situations which require a decision from us. Being able to make up one's mind is important in life. Some decisions depend on a quick response; others are made after slow and careful deliberation.

A dictionary defines decisiveness as: "Characterized by or showing the ability to make decisions quickly and firmly." Along with this, a decisive person must also have the foundation of confidence. This comes in handy when making authoritative and proper actions. Let's face it, decisiveness based on pure impulse is dangerously unsound.

Understandably, God isn't very fond of "fence-sitting," or indecisiveness; especially when it pertains to spiritual matters (Revelation 3:15-16). Allow me to use Daniel, as an example. He faced a decision in Babylon where he either had to obey the king's command, or God's commandment. For Daniel, it was a no-brainer because he had made up his mind that he would obey only God no matter what it cost him (Daniel 1:8).

Scripture implores us to be decisive, especially about things that really matter. I ask that you read 1 Kings 18. This is the episode where Elijah calls for a face-off between his God, and the false prophets of Baal. In the end, the point is made about the necessity of decision. God proved that when it comes to Him, you can't straddle the line. If He is God, then follow Him.

How about you? Have you made a firm decision about God, or are still beating around the bush? Remember, Jesus said, "you cannot serve God and mammon. You cannot serve two masters" (Matthew 6:24). We have a clear cut choice; we need to either "put up, or shut up!" As I mentioned above, If He is God, then follow Him!

Scripture: Mark 10:21; Deuteronomy 30:15-18; Luke 9:62; Numbers 14:24; 1 Corinthians 15:58

Prayer: Holy Father, there are many things in my life of which I am unsure of. But, one thing that I am certain of is You. Knowing You, following You, and wanting to be with You requires no consideration on my part. For me, it is done! Amen

God bless you!

Riley