Costly Decisions

When you hear the phrase “Costly Decision,” you probably think of it in a negative light. “Sneaking out of the house is a costly decision!” “Staying out drinking the night before your big presentation” is a costly decision.”

But what about following God? Is that a “costly decision?”

Many of my recent readings have made this point. When you decide to love, it’s a costly decision. When you decide to practice peace, it’s a costly decision.” When you elect to follow God, it’s a costly decision. Why? Because you are saying yes to the unknown.  You are making a daily commitment to something with often extreme ups and downs. Heartache, pain and frustration. Acceptance, tranquility, and sweetness. Feelings that go achingly deep.

To love and commit to someone “In sickness and in health…” No marriage is perfect but to make it work requires a commitment and respect from both sides to weather through the ups and downs of a life together. The same goes for practicing peace. To live in harmony with others requires you to sometimes swallow your pride, to reach out a hand to help someone in need when it isn’t convenient for you, to try to understand something that makes no sense to you.

To commit to God is to seek Him with your whole heart. This doesn’t mean giving up everything and becoming a hermit. It means making decisions based on God’s will, to committing time to listen for Him in your daily life. Here are some ways to deepening your commitment to God:

-        Seek out answers through Scripture

-        Participate in a Bible Study

-        Pray daily – and not just for big stuff

-        Daily devotional readings

-        Dedicate your daily tasks to God -do everything for the glory of God

-        Attending church services

-        Participating in ministry

-        Loving one another

-        Meditating to allow yourself to hear the Word of God

-        Meet with a spiritual advisor

Be fully open to Him in your daily life – activity isn’t belief or faith if you are just going through the motions.  As you grow your relationship with God, you will learn more about His will and path for your life.

Start with praying daily. There is no special way to pray – just talk to God and you will find your own special way of prayer. Join us at St. Thomas’ Church or your own church for guidance.