I have watched a friend struggle with indecisiveness and a lack of direction over the past few years. During that time they’ve wandered through life without focus, reacting rather than taking a proactive approach. Each time they discover something interesting, they research it. After investigation they discover more reasons why NOT to embrace it than why they should. Every movement towards personal achievement is riddled with risks too large to accept. Every commitment is too weighty and demanding to bear. Every reward is not worth the peril that surrounds the journey.  My concern for my friend is that they are being sucked into the path of the one talent servant. (Matthew 5:24 – 30)

As I have studied human behavior over the past few decades, the trait that keeps most people from realizing their potential is indecisiveness or procrastination. Motivational theory names this trait “self-martyrance.” It means not solving a problem or removing something painful from your life, despite your capacity to do so.  It most often exists due to a lack of hope a successful conclusion can be reached. Fear and anger contribute, causing one to be indecisive or make excuses, because: (1) it’s too difficult if you are a perfectionist. (2) Its too complex, daunting or time consuming if you do not think strategically, are indecisive or easily distracted. (3) Its too knowledge or skills intense if your overwhelmed by desire or attraction to the project’s tedium. (4) Or, it’s too big a chance for others to see me screw things up if I have a fear of failure (or success) and am insecure. Every one of these people is an archetype of Gideon!

I don’t know about you, but if God’s angel said to me: “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior,” I would believe him. Gideon didn’t see it that way. First he told the Lord he wasn’t qualified. (Judges 6:15) Then, he said “prove to me that you are who you say you are.” (v. 17) After the sign he had to be reassured he wasn’t going to die. (v. 23) Then he did not follow directions, but waited until night so his friends and family would not see him doing God’s bidding. (v.23) After the Spirit entered him and he called the troops, he did it again! This time he didn’t want one sign, but two! (vs. 36 – 40). I’m sure at this point IF the Lord could be frustrated by Gideon, He was. However, His next move dealt with Gideon’s indecisiveness. Step by step, God reduced his troop count from 32,000 to 300, (Judges 7:1 – 8) and caused the enemies to kill themselves, simply to prove a point – life’s challenges are not man’s but Gods. Now instead of believing God and accepting his calling after multiple miracles, Gideon turned down the position of Judge. (Judges 8:22) Do you believe that? Where was this guy’s brain? What more could God have done for him? Yet, God still loved him and preserved his memory forever.

Kids I relate this story to you because you must not procrastinate or put off what life has laid out in front of you. God divinely opens doors for you that you MUST walk through. Those doors are placed there for a reason and a short season only. Your ability to stay on your path will hasten your maturity and season you as God’s warrior. The outcome may not always be pleasant, but you will ALWAYS be one step closer to the completed person God ordained before the foundation of the earth. Now, get out there and grasp your destiny. If you are wrong, and at times you will be, grace is there to cover you.

Love Dad