It was early 1989. Kim and I were eagerly awaiting the arrival of our first born. We were finishing up Lamaze classes at the hospital where we would deliver. It was rather comical, the ‘ooh ooh aah aah” breathing, but they assured us it would be helpful. We toured the labor and delivery rooms and found them to be quite comfortable for the upcoming event. The nursery at home was decked out in Disney Babies ready to receive our bundle of joy.
In the midst of all this preparation, we learned that a local baby furniture store was hosting a Free Baby Safety Seminar. (The word “free” should have been a red flag. In fact, with that being said, you probably know where this story is going.)
As soon-to-be-first-time parents, we decided it would be a good seminar to attend. We learned how to baby-proof our home. We were taught to recognize dangerous places in our house that had not previously been problems. We heard about the safe way to feed, change and play with our new baby. Then they talked about baby furniture.
Well, somewhere in between talking about strollers and arriving home that evening, we became the proud owners of the Wonda-Chair! I look back on that purchase as one of the dark moments of my financial past (I know, not too bad if that is as bad as it gets).
Regardless, buying the Wonda-Chair was a rash, hasty, impulsive decision. We bought what they were selling! They had preyed on our naiveté and overstated the dangers to our child. Through short-sighted thinking, we also fell for the “today only” deal they presented.
In Genesis 25:32-33, Esau made a similar decision. “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said. “What good is the birthright to me?” But Jacob said, “Swear to me first.” So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob. He overstated his need (“I am about to die”) and displayed short-sighted thinking (“What good is this birthright to me?”). You have made similar decisions, as well.
The next time you are faced with a decision, remember to be realistic about what is before you and look to future implications. And one more thing…
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6