Decision: n. a conclusion or resolution reached after consideration.
Let's examine the different parts of this definition.
"Conclusion"
This word speaks of finality. The end. When you have reached a conclusion, you have completed your contemplation. No turning back; you have finished. There is a kind of fear that comes with this thought, is there not? It seems as though we tend to be afraid of the end. It means that it can't be changed; and we're not confident with our power to make the best decision. That creates hesitation in our minds and hearts when it comes to making a choice.
"Resolution Reached"
This makes me think of a compliance, as if there was a disagreement that has come to a compromise. It is a reconciliation of opposing opinions. When different parties combine ideas to form a final agreement. But both of these have addressed the end of the decision-making process. What about the process itself?
"After Consideration"
Before any decision is reached, there is some deliberation. It is inevitable. It may take hours or days or more, or it may require the smallest fraction of a moment. It may occupy our thoughts constantly, or it may pass without being consciously noticed; but nevertheless, consideration occurs. And this is the most important part of making a decision.
I believe that we are not the result of our circumstances. I believe that we have the power to choose who we are to be. I believe that God has a purpose for each of us, but I also believe that He has given us the power to choose whether or not we will follow the path He has laid out for us. There are so many voices that speak to us. Some bad, some good, some better, some worse. And in the middle of it all, we are capable of choosing our actions. Nothing forces us to do anything. Sometimes we give that excuse; sometimes we truly feel that way. But in reality, nothing can influence us unless we allow it to do so. That freedom of choice is called agency.
The word agency comes from the Latin root ag- which is the root of agere, which means to do, act, or manage.
Therefore, we are our own masters (Latin for "master": ageto. Same root!). We control our own actions and choices. I can choose who I am. I can decide what I do. I have the power to think and reason so I can come to the right conclusion. And I know that this power is from God.
"Resolution Reached"
This makes me think of a compliance, as if there was a disagreement that has come to a compromise. It is a reconciliation of opposing opinions. When different parties combine ideas to form a final agreement. But both of these have addressed the end of the decision-making process. What about the process itself?
"After Consideration"
Before any decision is reached, there is some deliberation. It is inevitable. It may take hours or days or more, or it may require the smallest fraction of a moment. It may occupy our thoughts constantly, or it may pass without being consciously noticed; but nevertheless, consideration occurs. And this is the most important part of making a decision.
I believe that we are not the result of our circumstances. I believe that we have the power to choose who we are to be. I believe that God has a purpose for each of us, but I also believe that He has given us the power to choose whether or not we will follow the path He has laid out for us. There are so many voices that speak to us. Some bad, some good, some better, some worse. And in the middle of it all, we are capable of choosing our actions. Nothing forces us to do anything. Sometimes we give that excuse; sometimes we truly feel that way. But in reality, nothing can influence us unless we allow it to do so. That freedom of choice is called agency.
The word agency comes from the Latin root ag- which is the root of agere, which means to do, act, or manage.
Therefore, we are our own masters (Latin for "master": ageto. Same root!). We control our own actions and choices. I can choose who I am. I can decide what I do. I have the power to think and reason so I can come to the right conclusion. And I know that this power is from God.
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