The world today seems to prefer living in the grey rather than promoting clear-cut decisions, it is ok for you to do you, so there does not need to be a black or white answer when it comes to decision making. However, when it comes to matters of the Christian faith, Jesus calls people to follow Him, and it is up to an individual to determine whether this is a decision worth making.

The definition of determine is to make a decision or find out exactly. An example of determining is measuring a piece of fabric before cutting it to size or deciding to paint your house a specific color. To determine what will be the most appropriate course of action. Sometimes it will be the course of action that will determine one’s future. Ie. Choosing to study close to home or away from home becomes a determining factor in the kind of life you lead.

Therefore when we determine something it can have weightier consequences than whether a piece of fabric is measured correctly. If the garment will nicely fit the recipient well or not, our decisions from a faith perspective now can have eternal consequences. For example, because the people laughed at Noah for building a boat that he was determined to build, the results were that they were swept away in flood. Or when the pharaoh made an official decision to reject Moses’ warnings, there was the loss of life and bloodshed throughout Egypt. These stories may seem irrelevant in today’s world, but the Bible shows its readers that there will be consequences if people continue to reject God? As Christians, we need to determine if living God’s way is worth the cost. The Bible says, to fix your eyes on Jesus especially if we have determined to follow Jesus and feel weary, Hebrews 12,

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

The stakes are high in this world. We will have trouble. Jesus is not a popular choice to follow, but He calls all peoples to determine whether He is worth it, and it is an official decision that will be made by all, either in this life or as we enter into the next. So this is what came to mind when challenged to write on the word determine. God bless your week, Leisa