Everyone has to make choices. It is an inescapable essential part of daily living. The choices we make can and will define us. We can’t escape the consequences that result from choices we make. God created man with a “free will” of his own, hence man chooses to do as he pleases – whether for good or evil intent. However, because there can be dire consequences of our choices, we should exercise caution and good judgment in doing so.
There are several instances in Scripture where personal choices have led to serious consequences. Notably, the situation with Adam and Eve. God placed them in the Garden of Eden and allowed them to eat of every tree with the exception of the “tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” And God warned Adam, “But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die” (Genesis 2:17). Then comes the serpent (Satan) who contradicts God by telling Eve, “You shall not surely die” (Genesis 3:4).
Eve falls for the serpent’s lie, disobeys God and talked Adam into disobeying God as well. The result? Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden by God. As a result of their choices, sin came into the world. The Bible states, “Just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned” (Romans 5:12). Adam’s and Eve’s choices brought ruin on the human race. The lesson here is that disobedience is sin and sinful choices will result in dire consequences.
There is also the situation with King David – a man after God’s own heart – who saw Bathsheba bathing and sent and enquired about with the intent to commit adultery, which he actually did. In addition, David also chose to have her husband murdered. The sad consequences of David’s choices. David had to know what he was committing sin and instead turn away. But he did not. Perhaps he failed to consider the likely outcome of his decision. Had David made the right choice by “walking away” after “looking” at Bathsheba, no sin would be committed.
David eventually realized he sinned and admitted, “I have sinned against the LORD” and Nathan said to David, “The LORD also has put away your sin: you shall not die” (2 Samuel 12:13).
In several instances people try to “justify” the choices they make by placing blame on someone or something else. Adam blames Eve for his choice and Eve blames the serpent for her choice.
It is an awesome individual responsibility to make the right choices, which requires the help of God Almighty. Thats why our daily prayers should include asking God to give us the wisdom and necessary guidance to make right choices.