Increasingly, we have witnessed growing disquiet in Kenya. There is crisis in the health and security sectors, commotion in the transport, education and even agricultural departments. And with the disaster that we are experiencing with heavy rains, the unease has only exacerbated.
One thing that has been pointed out again and again is the glaring failure of those in leadership. It seems that most of the choices that the leadership has made hitherto are in stark contrast to the rosy promises they gaveduring the campaign period. The fairy tale ended at the ballot.
While it is easy and convenient to blame leaders as public figures, the fact is these people have not just appeared out of the blue. They come from this society which is made up of individuals;
We cry of grand corruption and yet we entertain and facilitate seemingly inconspicuous bribery in order to be served faster or first or to get away with a
In the household of faith, our choices similarly reveal our allegiance. We have seen in recent times, with the exposure of occultic fellowships, that profuse confessions of Christ do not translate to a transformed life. In the journey of faith, we also often profess certain beliefs, hold onto values, and aspire to act in specific ways. However, it’s not merely our words or intentions that define us but our choices. Our decisions unveil the true essence of our character and our commitment to Christ.
As believers, we are called to make choices that align with God’s will and reflect His love and truth.
In Matthew 7:16-20, Jesus teaches, “You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.”
Integrity in
Seeking God’s Guidance: Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Before making decisions, seek God’s guidance through prayer and meditation on His Word. Trust in His wisdom rather than relying solely on your own understanding, knowing that He will direct your steps.
Accountability and Counsel: Proverbs 11:14 states, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Surround yourself with fellow believers who can provide accountability and wise counsel. Seek advice from trusted mentors, pastors, or friends who are grounded in faith, and be open to receiving feedback that aligns with God’s Word.
Reflecting Christ’s Love: Ephesians 5:1-2 encourages us, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Let love be the guiding principle in your choices. Choose kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, reflecting the love of Christ to those around you. By doing so, you not only honor God but also bear witness to His transformative power in your life.
As Christians, our choices are more than mere actions; they are reflections of our identity and relationship with God. Choices on what we do with our time, whom we elect into office, whether or not we keep our word, how we conduct our affairs, how we talk, how we raise our children among others, are ‘identity markers’. We may say one thing, we may sincerely want to do something or insist that we walk in certain values and principles but the choices we make eventually will tell on us.
That is not to say that one will not fall or struggle. After all transformation is not a neat process. Nevertheless, if the struggle is purposed with a desire to grow it will yield change. If the struggle yields to conformity, then there is no change. It has been oft told and, in many ways, we are what we repeatedly do; it’s not rocket science!