Tag: Decisions

Decisions and Consequences

How often do we consider the consequences of a decision to get involved in an activity of questionable influence to our Christianity and leadership?

Leaders are to be active in assisting others in setting up for the long run. There is a great need to consider where we want to be in the future and what decisions will help us reach the destination with a strong godly character.

Every decision has some form of consequence, good or bad, now and in the long run.

A thoughtful process of examining these consequences will help us shape the future for our own lives and for those we lead.

Decision-Making

Leaders often struggle with making decisions.

Leaders need to practice the following: 1) examine the scripture to make sure that a decision is biblical and not just follow the flow of popularity or opinion, 2) never rush a decision, but do not hesitate between two opinions either, 3) if the decision is right, then make it, 4) remember, not every decision will please everyone.

The next generation of leaders needs to learn how to make sound, biblical decisions.

More could be said, but the responsibility of training the next generation of leaders to be decisive is crucial to the future.

A True Leader

Douglas MacArthur was known for his leadership, especially during the time of World War II.

He once said, “A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.”

Leaders need confidence in God and His power that works within us.
Leaders must choose courage when needed most.
Leaders must demonstrate the Christlike quality of compassion.
Leaders must be characterized by consistency.
Leaders must learn to walk with integrity.

Measure Twice, Cut Once

If you are like me, this is one of those lessons learned by experience.

While it extends into the field of carpentry and medicine, we find an application fitting for most areas of life, especially leadership.

Leadership credibility increases when decisions are based on additional information gained or counsel received, indicating the time taken to measure twice.

How different would the outcome have been if biblical leaders like Saul, David, Peter, and Paul had taking time to investigate further before making a decision compromising their relationship with God and His people?

Measuring twice makes it possible to ensure accuracy before making decisions with great consequential impact.

Timing is Everything

Timing is everything. How many times have we heard this statement or one similar? Yet, it is true on a number of levels.

When addressing a delicate situation, timing is everything.

When faced with life changing decisions, timing is everything.

When waiting for answers to test results, timing is everything.

When confronting a family member, fellow worker or employee, timing is everything.

God reminds us there is an appointed time for everything (Ecc. 3:1).

If we step back, think for a moment, and ask ourselves, “Is this the right time to continue in this direction?” maybe we can handle whatever life throws our way.

Consequential Decisions

We make thousands of decisions each day, most of which hold little consequence. However, we do face times when decisions of great consequence must be made.

The challenge occurs when we must make last minute decisions as they relate to consequential matters.

What process might help us make the best decision in these situations?

The process should start with and be immersed in prayer.
Gather as much information as possible prior to the decision.
Consider the consequences of not making a decision.

Last minute decisions are not usually easy to make, but always make them based on how they impact others first.

Whatever It Takes

Is leadership worth it? Are we not better off to let someone else lead? Why not focus on ourselves and our family? Would life not be easier?

Think about how it affects us on a personal level.

Will the long-term results be worth the decision?

If we relinquish the opportunity to lead, will we be content for our children to follow someone or something else?

If brethren decide to follow the path of error, will we accept the consequences for our choice not to lead?

When we weigh it all out, we will probably find that leadership is worth whatever it takes!

Practice the Pause

Lori Deschene once said, ”Practice the pause. Pause before judging. Pause before assuming. Pause before accusing. Pause whenever you’re about to react harshly and you’ll avoid doing and saying things you’ll later regret.”

How often do we fail to think before we speak, only to wish later we could take back our words?

From a leadership perspective, learning to practice the pause makes all the difference. When we stop to think and gather all the information possible before speaking or deciding, we can see more clearly the best direction for both.

The result leads to better decisions, which strengthens credibility in our leadership.

Two Questions

Two words with three letters each. The most powerful questions to be considered.

The first is why? The implication is to determine the purpose behind decisions being made and actions taken.

Why does this task require leadership?
Why should we pursue this direction?
Why is this work important?
Why is this the best course of action?

The second is how? Once we understand the purpose, we must determine how we will fulfill it.

How do I become a better leader?
How will we accomplish the task?
How should we handle obstacles?
How can we get others involved?

Nothing could be stronger from a spiritual perspective.

The Choice

The issue of choice relates to every area of life. Walk down the isle of any store and consider the choices available on any product. At times, it becomes overwhelming to determine exactly what is needed.

A study of leadership highlights the challenge of making choices. The choices made by leaders can make the difference in success or failure?

Sadly, many choices are made by trial and error. Only after the results of the choice are seen can another decision be made concerning the appropriate direction to take.

Nothing is more significant than leading others to make the choice about Jesus.