Now choose life, so that you and your children may live. (Deut. 30:19)
Expanded Passage: Deuteronomy 30:19-20
I’ve been on a quest to take better care of my health. In my early forties, I’m looking back and seeing how the choices I’ve already made have impacted me, and looking ahead to see how different choices will likely secure a better future as I age.
One piece of wisdom I keep stumbling upon is to pre-decide which food I’ll have ready to eat when I’m hungry later. Yes to regular nuts & veggies; no to regular cookies & ice cream. Deciding to leave the sweets at the store makes it much easier to avoid their temptation at 4pm in my kitchen!
As Moses spoke God’s words to his people, the wise choice was evident, and was spoken emphatically. The Israelites could indeed pre-decide how they would live in the land and whom they would follow and trust to sustain them. Deciding before they even entered their new home would have lasting consequences for future good and life in their families, many years down the road.
Pre-deciding has lasting consequences for our future and families too. When we predetermine to listen to God’s voice, to get to know him and love him, trusting that he is brilliant and wise (and then hold fast to him come what may), we are choosing life in the moment and for the future. Bless your children and grandchildren now—choose life.
Pre-deciding is a wise way to faithfully follow the Lord.
Jamie Hilty lives in northern Indiana with her pastor-husband Josh. She spends her days reading aloud to her kids, planning retreats, and avoiding the dishes.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
