Learning from Our Detours in Life
Have you ever looked back and shaken your head at a choice you made? Maybe it was a relationship that started with butterflies. It was a job that promised the world. It was a split-second decision that led you somewhere you never wanted to go. If you have, you’re definitely not alone. Every single one of us has walked down roads that felt perfect at the moment. Only later did we realize that they weren’t what we thought.
There’s a famous line from Proverbs. It says, “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” That sounds dramatic. In everyday terms, it just means that not everything that feels right is good for us in the long run. We’re human. We trust our gut. And sometimes, our gut gets it wrong.
Why Do We Choose the Wrong Path?
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment. We see only what’s in front of us—the excitement, the promise, the relief, the fun. Our minds tell us, “This makes sense! This is what you need!” But feelings can trick us, and quick solutions rarely last.
Think about fad diets that guarantee instant results. Or a new friendship that seems great but slowly drains your energy. Or picking a job just for the paycheck, even though you know you’ll be miserable. These are all paths that looked good at first but didn’t lead us where we wanted to go.
What Can We Do About It?
So, how do we avoid making choices we’ll regret? Here are a few simple tips, inspired by that proverb:
- Pause and Think: Before you jump in, take a breath. Ask yourself if you’re choosing this path because it’s truly right. Are you choosing it just because it feels easy or exciting right now?
- Ask for Advice: Talk to someone you trust. Sometimes friends or family can spot trouble we’re blind to when emotions run high.
- Look at the Long Term: Imagine where the path leads. Will it bring you closer to your goals and values, or take you further away?
- Learn from Your Past: We all make mistakes. Instead of beating yourself up, look at what you’ve learned and use that to make better choices next time.
Real Life Examples
- Relationships: The person who gives you butterflies could also bring heartbreak. Ask if they truly support and respect you.
- Work: That high-paying job might not make you happy if it doesn’t match your passions or values.
- Daily Habits: Binge-watching late into the night is fun now. But, it will leave you tired and grumpy the next day.
The Big Picture
At the end of the day, Proverbs 14:12 isn’t just a warning—it’s an encouragement to think deeply before making choices. We don’t have to figure it all out on our own. There’s wisdom in asking for help, pausing to think, and considering the bigger picture. Life isn’t about chasing what feels good right now. It’s about making decisions that will help us grow, find real joy, and avoid regrets.
So next time you’re at a crossroads, remember: just because a path looks right doesn’t mean it is. Slow down, seek advice, and choose wisely. Your future self will thank you.
Wishing you wisdom on your journey.
Minster A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 