When I have a tough decision to make I seek the counsel of others and the Counsel from above. I sometimes talk it out loud so I can hear my quandary. It is spinning in my head and I need clarity.
Putting God in front of our decisions is key. Another blogger talked about this and is so right.
“To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.” Wise Counsel from above. Such beautiful words they were set to music in the 1960’s by a group called The Byrds. Their song: Turn, Turn, Turn.
Sometimes we think we need to hurry up and do something. A wise woman once told me that real emergencies are rare. So take time to get as much information as you can to make an informed decision. I cannot quote her exact words because it was a long time ago, but she made a big difference in my life.
I credit Tillie, the founder of an emergency relief charity with giving me some very wise counsel I have not forgotten. She ministered to people with emergency needs for 30 years. She heard it all. I was a volunteer. I answered a 24/7 hotline. My shift was once a month from Friday night to Saturday night. I did this for 6 years. Some of the stories I heard were very sad and required follow up and referral. Some stories were feigned by those who tried to use the system. No matter the caller, they each received the same consideration and care. We took time to help them and be wise stewards of our resources.
Many of our decisions, whether professional or personal, have to do with timing. I wanted to leave a job, but I could not go until the time was right. I did not know when that would be. But when the time arrived I knew. Then I had Peace about it.
Some tough decisions: moving an elderly loved one; changing jobs; letting kids make their own decisions and taking a step back from giving too much advice. Letting go of a relationship. When to fight back or turn the other cheek.
Don’t have peace? Maybe the timing is not right yet.
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time to dance, a time to mourn
A time to cast away stones, a time to gather stones together
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time of war, a time of peace
A time you may embrace, a time to refrain from embracing
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time to rend, a time to sew
A time for love, a time for hate
A time for peace, I swear it’s not too late