This week we continue the thought that life is about making choices/decisions.

Ever met people who are climbing up the wall because they are struggling with making decisions! They are tired & weary just thinking about having to make another choice, another decision! Of course, it is true that every day we feel like we are being bombarded with having to make so many choices, sometimes to the point where we feel like screaming, "Can I not go through one day in my life without having to make one decision!" But always keep in mind: choices are what produces change and change is what produces growth! SITUATION + CHOICE/DECISION = CONSEQUENCES. The following are some general steps I have found helpful in making decisions:

1. Clearly define & understand the issue one is considering. I place this at the top of the list because our emotions at the moment of decision-making can often cloud & confuse the process. Sometimes it helps to talk it over with someone for the purpose of gaining objectivity!
    

2. In making this decision, ask the question, "What do I hope to get out of this choice/decision...What is "my bottom line" - Is the gain financial, emotional, spiritual, social, etc. Sometimes it helps to put my thought(s) on paper so that it's visual.
    

3. Assuming that the issue before us is not a "life & death issue" don't go around beating yourself up about making the wrong decision. If the decision needs to be re-evaluated down the road, that's OK. Whatever else, don't stick your head in the sand on making a decision!
    

4. Tell yourself that no one is perfect and we will all make mistakes - The only "mistake" about "making mistakes" is not learning from the "mistake"!
    

5. Once our "homework" has been completed and we have come to a decision, then go ahead & make the decision - announce it and take action! Don't keep rehashing the decision once the decision has been reached. Move on and take the necessary steps to implement the decision! Follow your plan of action! Plan your work - work your plan!
    

6. Remember that decision making is an on-going process - circumstances change over time - situations change - new team-mates come, some may leave - life is continually in a state of flux but that's OK. The "Good News" is that regardless what the circumstances are we can be content (Philippians 4:11-13) - we can have inner peace even in the midst of conflict as long as our hope & trust is in the Lord. God who will give us strength & wisdom to make the necessary decisions if we but learn to surrender to His guidance!

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
(Isaiah 40:31)