I listened to the report of a mentee of mine concerning the woman to whom he is now married. More than 30 years ago when they were courting, he asked his spouse why she decided to marry him when there was hardly any worldly good of his own. The woman answered with wisdom. Her choice was informed not by the present but by the fact that her man had vision and knew where he was going. They have been married for over 30 years, and the woman was right in her analysis. The man is doing brilliantly well in business and ministry. Factoring in the future is a major ingredient of good decision-making.
Factoring in the future is a major ingredient of good decision-making.
The story of Ahithophel is a popular one in the Bible. He was one of the wisest men in his time. It is on record that the counsel that flowed from him was as good as if one had inquired directly at the mouth of God. (2 Samuel 16:23). Despite all his wisdom he died miserably; he hung himself. The problem with Ahithophel can be summarized in one sentence; that is, he failed to see the future. The momentary victory from Absalom’s palace coup captivated him so much so that he pitched his camp with him. That was his undoing. Even though David was momentarily paying for his indiscretion, he still represented the future of Israel. Despite all his wisdom, Ahithophel could not see this point. Some present positions may look brilliant but have no future; and some promising future may have no comeliness at the moment. Trust God for wisdom to know where the future is; and for grace to stay put, no matter what is happening at the moment.