Choices and Consequences

  Monday we looked at the choice the Israelites made in choosing to have a human king.  The first three kings, Saul, David and Solomon had their good and bad points.  The kingdom of Israel degraded into civil war and divided after that.  Northern and Southern Israel were ruled by a succession of evil kings (and one queen) until both were conquered by foreigners.  The rejection of God as their King cost them everything - even their country.
  God did not force himself on the Israelites.  Using their free will, they chose human leaders and suffered the consequences about which God had warned them.  We use our free will every day, and we too either gain the advantages or suffer the disadvantages of our choices.

  For reflection:  What major decisions/choices am I facing?  What might the long-term benefits or consequences be?
  Let us pray.  Father, I am not able to see as far down the road as you.  You know better the advantages and disadvantages of the decisions I am facing.  Impart your grace and grant me wisdom.  "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding.  To him belongs eternal praise" (Psalm 111:10).

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