Life often rewards those who can resist the urge to act hastily.
A famous psychological study conducted by Stanford University in the 1960s, known as the marshmallow experiment, delved into the concept of delayed gratification. In this experiment, children were offered a choice between one immediate marshmallow or two marshmallows if they could wait for a short period. Follow-up research, as highlighted in a study covered by Live Science, revealed that the ability to delay gratification was linked to better outcomes in areas such as academic performance, health, and emotional resilience.
Similarly, children in these experiments demonstrated that patience and self-control often lead to greater rewards. Those who waited demonstrated patience and foresight, qualities that serve as hallmarks of wise leadership.
Here’s the big idea: there’s always more at stake than we realize. At the heart of every challenge lies a critical question: Can God be trusted? This means asking ourselves, “Can I slow down enough to ensure I’m hearing from God and following His best plan for my life?”
Take Solomon, the son of David, as an example. Consumed by jealousy of neighboring kingdoms, Solomon made impulsive decisions that led to avoidable consequences.
His actions remind us of the perils of haste. His actions remind us of the perils of haste. Psalm 73:14-17 captures this lesson beautifully: “When I thought how to understand this, it seemed to me a wearisome task, until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end.” This verse underscores the transformative power of pausing to seek God’s perspective before acting.
The moments that test us the most often reveal the essence of who we are and whose we are. As leaders, we must declare this truth: poor choices will not define our future or our faith. Life is too significant to be rushed. Leading slowly isn’t about procrastination; it’s about cultivating wisdom and discerning the right path forward.
Three Steps to Leading Slowly
- Pause and Pray: Before making any decision, take time to seek God’s guidance through prayer. This step allows you to align your actions with His will.
- Reflect on Long-Term Impact: Consider how your choices will affect not only the present moment but also the future. Wisdom grows when we think beyond immediate gratification.
- Seek Wise Counsel: Surround yourself with trusted advisors who can offer perspective and challenge your assumptions. Their input can help prevent hasty mistakes.
Ultimately, God sent us a new Son of David, Jesus Christ, who exemplified trust and patience in every aspect of His life. He showed us that waiting on God’s timing isn’t just wise—it’s essential for fulfilling our purpose. By following His example, we learn that the best outcomes often come when we lead slowly, seek God’s guidance, and trust His process.
The next time you’re faced with a decision, remember: life’s greatest rewards are reserved for those who move with intention and faith. Choose to lead slowly, and you’ll find clarity in uncertainty, strength in surrender, and direction in the stillness of God’s presence. It is in these moments of deliberate trust that you not only uncover wisdom but also experience the deep, abiding peace that comes from walking in step with God’s perfect plan for your life.
