COSTLY DECISIONS:
II Samuel 24:9-10 NKJV
[9] Then Joab gave the sum of the number of the people to the king. And there were in Israel eight hundred thousand valiant men who drew the sword, and the men of Judah were five hundred thousand men. [10] And David’s heart condemned him after he had numbered the people. So David said to the Lord, “I have sinned greatly in what I have done; but now, I pray, O Lord, take away the iniquity of Your servant, for I have done very foolishly.”
Costly decisions are made when one thinks he is smart, or he is greedy, ungrateful, and has a disloyal heart. The costs of such decisions far outweigh the benefits to be derived. The realization that a mistake has been made is often immediate but its consequences, difficult to reverse.
When David decided to conduct a census in Israel, his commanders and leaders tried in vain to persuade him to change his mind. Yet, the moment the Census was completed and the results were brought to him, he knew he had made a costly mistake. As a result of his decision, Israel lost seventy thousand strongmen.
Adam and Eve thought they were being smart by eating the fruit of the tree in the midst of the garden of Eden God told them not to eat. Little did they know that it would cost them the blessings and generosity of God they enjoyed, to suffer to earn their living and in child bearing. They lost everything for a moment of joy.
When Judas decided to betray Jesus, didn’t it occur to him that he was going to lose his job and his peace for betraying the man who trusted him and did him no wrong? That one decision cost him his life. Was it worth it?
Friends, God is calling us to be more cautious and discerning when it comes to decision making. Those who ignore this advice pay a heavy price. Do you want to avoid making costly mistakes? Remember what the Bible says in ….
Proverbs 3:5-8 NKJV
[5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; [6] In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. [7] Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. [8] It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones.