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Recently I considered offering assistance to an acquaintance of mine. I was wrestling a bit with the decision because this person, while friendly, usually maintained a reserved distance. Her inner circle was probably already rallying around her. There was certainly no expectation of my help. Would she appreciate my offer? Besides, I had been helping someone else and was tired. Should I stick my neck out when I didn’t need to?

As I thought about this, words Moses spoke thousands of years ago came to me with right-now relevance. 

Moses was at the end of his life as the children of Israel finally prepared to enter the Promised Land. He gave an impassioned address, wanting desperately for them to remember his words as they began a new life in a new land. He beseeched them to love the LORD and walk in his ways, with the promise of life and blessing. He warned them of the consequences of turning away.  They were not to regard the gods of the people whose land they were entering, or have any part in their horrific worship practices. Moses then declared, “I call heaven and earth to witness against you this day, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse; therefore choose life…” (Deuteronomy 30:15-20)

Those words, “therefore choose life”, spoke to my dilemma. Which path encouraged loving, rich, abundant life? What was life affirming? I knew it would mean a lot to me if someone offered the kind of assistance I was considering offering. Approaching her about this would provide an opportunity to strengthen our relationship, while still allowing her to remain detached if she chose to. And, though I was tired, I was sure I could make time for her without risking exhaustion. 

The opportunity to help in this way was not likely to come along again. I didn’t want to miss it. So, I took a chance. I offered assistance and relationship. Regardless of the outcome, I knew I was choosing life. 

Are there a few words that help you focus on what’s most important and guide your choices? This would be a great time to jump in and share, since this is the final post in this current series, “Words of Wisdom and Refreshment”. Simply write a comment below and it will post as soon as it’s approved.