Choice:A Double -Edged Sword

There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.
(Proverbs 14:12, LB)

In life, we make choices virtually every day. The choices we make may vary in gravity or brevity, depending on some factors surrounding us as the decision makers. As a matter of fact, there are times we have made choices without taking proper cognizance of the pros and cons that could result from those choices we made. You would concur that there are numerous choices several young persons wished they hadn't made before now. Truly, the hackneyed cliche that says that 'Had I known comes at last', still holds. But, you could still rewrite some errors of the past, if only you could start making the right choices now.

What are choices?
Choices are simply, specific selections from among existing alternatives. Every choice has its own weight and effects. Hence, the need to make well calculated choices, so as to avoid some stories that touch the heart.

Choose you this day whom ye will serve.
(Joshua 24:15, KJV)

Classes of Choices
Choices like we said earlier have diverse consequences, therefore we will attempt a ranking of choices:
1. Less important choices: These are choices whose weight and effects in terms of value and impact are of a little significance or importance. For instance, the choice of writing a note with either a blue pen or a black pen will attract little or no consequences.
2. Important choices: This class of choices have more value compared to the above type. The choices here may range from choices of food to eat, where to go to, which clothes to wear, to which friends to keep. As minute as these choices may seem, they could have serious implications either now or later in life.
3. Very important choices: This last class of choices has such a heavy weight that makes it very sensitive and of the highest importance. Examples of what we could find here include career choices, sexual choices, marital choices , faith choices; among others. This group of choices have far reaching implications, thus they must be taken wisely and advisedly too. God in His wisdom created human beings with the right to choose, and it behoves us to make correct choices.

Choice Determinants
A number of factors influence what later becomes our choices in life. These factors should therefore be identified and understood in order to maximize them appropriately:
1. Parents and Role models: As young people, our choices may tend to be shaped by the world views of our parents and the folks we look up to. However, we must be careful so as not to allow our choices get influenced negatively or for selfish reasons.

Teach a child to choose the right path, and when he is older he will remain upon it. (Proverbs 22:6, LB)

2. Peers: Teens copy a great deal from their friends and age mates either consciously or unconsciously, and this may be because of the intermingling that exist among them. Although, peer influence could either be positive or negative, caution should be taken to avoid being lured into wrong choices.

My son, if sinners entice you, consent thou not. (Proverbs 1:10, KJV)

3. Prevalence of Mass media and internet: With the multiplication of the mass media and internet facilities, many youths spend hours of their lives either with the internet or before televisions absorbing different things from different sources, including the good, the bad and the ugly. The things they learn from these channels could manifest in their choices. So, be careful little eyes what you see.

I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
(Psalms 101:3, KJV)

4. Personal awareness and beliefs: The choices of a fellow who is well informed would likely be better than those of a seasoned illiterate. Hence, what we know could go a long way in shaping our choices. It is also true that our belief system influences our choice making. Your belief will most likely determine your behavior.

Desire without knowledge is not good. (Proverbs 19:2, GI)

5. Personal desires and available resources: Admittedly, what we have likeness for may permeate our choices. If you like something you would want to have it. In the same vein, our resources have a way of influencing our choices. This is because life is only willing to give you what you demand( what you can pay for), not just what you desire. If you have limited resources, your choices would be limited too. However, your choices should be guided by God's standards.

But the desires of the righteous shall be granted. (Proverbs 10:24, KJV)

Furthermore, the bible story that brought about the popular statement 'to your tents o! Israel', which was about the loss of ten kingdoms in one day, provides a good lesson on choices . That story of the foolish son of a wise king is didactic. We should learn from the mistakes of the experienced in order to avert some costs for ourselves. It is our desire that having read this brief article you will begin to make good and healthy choices.

Choice Making Tips
1. Set personal standards(Daniel 1:8)
2. Separate yourself from sources of wrong influence (11Corinthians 6:14-15)
3. Sieve what you hear (Philippians 4:8)
4. Select Godly counselors(Proverbs 25:11)
5. Show your beliefs in your choices and actions (James 2:17)

I call heaven and earth to witness against you that today I have set before you life or death, blessing or curse. Oh, that you would choose life; that you and your children might live!
( Deuteronomy 30:19, LB)

In sum, always remember that you are responsible for your choices in life. Your choices define your character. Also, your choices will definitely give birth to consequences which could be either good or bad, small or big, depending on what it entails. Oh! Yes. The fruits of your choices could either be positive or negative. May the Lord, Jesus Christ give you the wisdom to make right choices every moment of your life. God bless you.

Godsgrant Akujuobi

Author's Note

Your comments are welcomed.