So often when we are faced with the decision whether we should or should not do something; or, we consider canceling or postponing a decision; or, when we are pressured to respond to an opportunity or pass it by, most often our constant thought is on how is it going to affect us or those closest to us. While that is certainly a big factor, what about our relationship with God? We must realize that God is not a puppeteer, standing above us pulling our strings, and we are not robots merely wound up to perform what we are programmed to do. God has given us room to select options and exercise our will; not forcing us to choose one over the other. Therefore, we must also take into account how our actions, decisions, and affirmations will affect our service to Him as much as it affects us with its outcome. This is called responsibility for the privilege of having a free will. Therefore, we should always take into account our dedication to God in every one of these instances. – Dr. Robert R Seyda