Choose Wisely

 Acts 5:3 (NRSV): “Ananias,” Peter asked, “why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back part of the proceeds of the land?”
     This scripture passage refers to the decision that Ananias made when selling his property under the pretense of giving the entire proceeds to the developing ministry. Others before him did the ‘right’ thing and lived up to their promises; however Ananias for whatever reason decided to give just a portion of the available funds but lied about the option. The property and the money were his to do with as he and his wife pleased but they chose to take the low road of deception. Paul acknowledged that Satan was the ultimate culprit in the action, but Ananias had succumbed to the temptation of listening to the deceiver and he and his wife both immediately died in the midst of speaking their lies.
       No matter how important it might seem or how easy it might appear, do not be fooled by the cunning ways of the evil one who uses even schemes cloaked in good deeds to trap God’s children. If the deal seems too good to be true; if there is a pressure tactic that requires you to make a fast or rash decision or if there are more questions than there are answers - stir clear. As in the case with Ananias sometimes we will be presented with options that make us go against what we have promised to God, even if God never asks for anything. But just as with anyone else when a promise is made, we expect the parties involved to be faithful to the commitment. God also expects us to live up to our promises.          Every day we are provided with options, opportunities and choices. These prospects give possibilities for us to leave imprints of ourselves on the lives and livelihoods of others near and far. We know that our actions affect not only ourselves but can impact the lives of others for the better or for the worse. Let your decisions reflect your faithfulness in honoring God
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a Victoriously GREAT day! Be blessed! Dr. JoAnn