TOPIC: CHOICES, DECISIONS & DESTINY
Memory Verse: Deut. 30:19
Introduction:
Life is a product of the choices you make. Also, decisions determine destiny. Choices and decisions are siamese twins. Your choices influence your decisions. Choice is the route to decision. Choices cumulate in the processes of decision making. While choice is procedural, decision is both substantive and final.
Therefore, it becomes important we pay close attention to the choices and decisions we make to ensure they align with the counsel of God.
BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF THE IMPACT OF CHOICES & DECISIONS
1. Ruth’s example Ruth -1:16-18; Matt.1:5
2. Samson’s example – Judges 16:1,18-30
3. The Prodigal son’s example- Luke 15:11-24
HOW TO ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF YOUR CHOICES AND DECISIONS
1. Critical thinking and reasoning- Isaiah 1:18; Luke 15:11-24; Phil.4:8
2. Wise and right relationships- Ps.1:1-3; Prov.13:20; Acts 4:13,23
3. Meditations in the Word- Ps.16:7;39:3;1 Tim.4:15-16;2 Tim.3:16-17
4. Constant intercourse with the Holy Spirit- John 16:13; 1 John2:20; Roms.8:13-14
BOOBY TRAPS OF CHOICES & DECISIONS TO AVOID
1. Assumption – Judges 11:30-35; Psalm 19:13-14
2. Shadow approval – Acts 12:3; 1 Kings 13:14-24
3. Past experiences and acquired knowledge – Judges 16:20; 1 Cor.8:1
4. Default thinking/culture/tradition – John 4:7-12; Matt.3:9
5. Fear-1 Kings 19:1-4; Luke 19: 20-21
6. Immediate gratification – Gen.25:31-34; Heb.12:16-17
7. Arrogance of self and status- Matt.14:6-10; Dan.4:30-33
8. Bias and prejudices – Luke 19: 20-22; Acts 10:9-15
9. Unacknowledged low self-esteem- Nums.13:31-33; Psalm 49:20