Do you know the secret to wise decisions?

There is a popular saying during the Christmas season, “wise [wo]men still seek him.” This saying is a reference to the three scholarly men who visited Jesus sometime after his birth, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. It is a reminder to us in the present day, that women and men who seek the guidance and direction of the Almighty, are indeed wise.

If you read throughout the writings in Psalms, we see many times where the psalmist sought refuge and comfort by asking God specifically to guide him. You can do the same thing. You should seek God’s wisdom before you accept that new job, date that young man, buy that new car or even purchase that new house.

As we enter the Christmas season and look back, 2020 has been a very difficult year. As a nation, we experienced a tumultuous election and dealt with the ravages of the COVID-19 virus. Looking forward, perhaps you are apprehensive of what 2021 may bring and are unsure as to what you can expect. Therefore you need to be purposeful and wise in your decision making. 

James was aware of such anxiety in the heart of the believer which is why he encourages us as follows:  “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.”  James 1:5-6 NIV. 

While it is hard to move on from the disappointments of 2020, we can be assured that God is still in control. Whatever 2021 brings, as long as we stay connected to God, we can handle it; if we do as the Psalmist suggests, “show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.”  Psalm 25:4-5 NIV.

As we look forward to new horizons and opportunities for 2021, it is important to remember that it is paramount that we seek the Lord’s direction for all plans we intend to make. Proverbs 19:21 NIV says, “many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.”