I've been thinking lately about the incredible impact our choices have - both for ourselves and for those around us. Especially the choices we make early on (in marriage, in parenting, in our Christian walk or even in a given day) and how they set the tone for success or struggle, blessing or burden, health or disease, and a host of other things.
My train of thought actually began with the topic of food choices - and how the ones made first thing in the morning truly set the tone for the rest of the day. In my world, I have learned that once I give in to sugar - the rest is downhill (and usually it's a downright ugly ride!). I have not found this to be an area where I have ANY concept of moderation. For me, this is, sadly, an all or nothing arena (think of an alcoholic trying to take just one sip). Once I've unleashed that monster, I often just have to hang on, get through the day and make a fresh start in the morning (thankful that, EVEN in this, His mercies are new).
It's been said that we make our choices and then our choices make us. Don't hear me wrong, God can absolutely redeem our poor choices and make something beautiful out of them, but it's far less painful to not make poor choices in the first place. Whether it's a (seemingly trivial) battle with sugar, an attempt to control your temper, a desire to change a relationship, the resolve to stand firm in your convictions or . . . (fill in the blank). It is wise to consider where the path is going to lead before you take the first step down it.
It just might 'make all the difference'.
