Too blessed to be foolish

We are all constantly presented with various opportunities to make a choice. Specifically, times when one option would benefit us far better than the other, but might not provide the same level of pleasure. We aren't speaking of times when you are faced with the temptation of some addiction you struggle with. Such sins are overcome by continually reminding yourself of God's love and trusting in His grace (and of course, by putting up the necessary measures needed for that specific event). Today's topic, on the other hand, is about times when you are fully able to turn your back on some option in favor of another. This is about times when you are well able to say no or yes to both options. Today, we are addressing a biblical approach to handling such situations.

For a lot of us, many times, we have gone with the less beneficial option because we focused a lot on the passing pleasure of that moment. We failed to analyze the bigger picture and let our emotions be swayed too quickly. Now, if you ever find yourself in such a situation again, or are currently in one, the book of Proverbs presents a hint on how to handle things. In Proverbs 14:4 it says,

⁴ Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty,

    but from the strength of an ox come abundant harvests.

Now, looking at the verse above: A manger is a kind of feeding trough for farm animals. The absence of oxen would imply that the farmer would have fewer mouths to feed and a cleaner stable since no oxen would defecate around. However, having an ox would also guarantee the availability of more muscle for things such as plowing the land. This verse gives us a great example of a "Cost vs Reward" scenario.

No oxen = Less mouths to feed + No poop to clean.

Oxen = More mouths to feed + Greater harvests = More income.

In the context of this verse, we are told that although it might seem much simpler not to have the burden of caring for oxen, in the end, the farmer could lose out on a better life. The lesson? See the picture beyond the momentary pleasure. Taking on such an approach to decision-making is beneficial and can help us make better choices in various areas and stages of our lives.

Another example is the famous story of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). In that story, it is evident that the young man was quick to embrace momentary pleasure. Obviously, unlike his father, he lacked the tolerance and aptitude for resource management. Yet, he was too quick to exchange his father's guidance for momentary pleasures. In our daily decision-making, seeking to see the picture beyond can be greatly advantageous in both our immediate and distant futures.

You might say, "How about praying first? Sometimes you just don't know! What seems to be good might be bad!".

And you are very right! You are far more right than the east is to the west. We don't know tomorrow and do not want to end up like Lot, who thought he had chosen the better land only to see it consumed by burning sulfur! (Genesis 13:11, Genesis 19:1-24). The Word says in Proverbs 3:5-6,

⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart

    and lean not on your own understanding;

⁶ in all your ways submit to him,

    and he will make your paths straight.^[a]....

Therefore, it is vital that we also involve God in our decision-making through prayer. Prayer + Word is always a great combination for victory.