Sometimes I jump to conclusions. I get excited or anxious and think I know the outcome before I have all the information. I was given the green light by my husband to shop for new carpet for the family room. We had tried shopping together and quickly discovered we were not going to agree. My husband, in his wisdom, decided to let me pick out what I want. Part of me felt bad that we weren’t doing this together. The other part of me couldn’t wait to start shipping.

It was in my enthusiasm to start shopping that I headed out to a flooring outlet knowing the best way to keep hubby happy is to find a good deal. I only had a couple of hours, but I wanted to see what they had. I thought I knew where I was going. It was Sunday, and I wanted to be home in time for the football game. I was certain this clearance center was part of a larger store. I was wrong. Not only was the store not where I though it was, it wasn’t part of the larger store. The kicker, the outlet store is not open on Sundays. Ugh. I was so bummed that I had jumped to conclusions and wasted my time.

I jump to conclusions in many ways. I jump in work situations, family situations, and even church situations.. I think I know other people’s intentions and perceptions. I make snap judgements about what others are thinking. I assume I know the best course of action before I have all the information. All of this haste usually end up with me in the wrong. These scriptures from the wisdom of Proverbs remind me that jumping to conclusions is most likely going to cause suffering.

The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty. (Proverbs 21:5 NIV).

Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them (Proverbs 29:20 NIV).

When I pause and listen for God’s guidence, I am more likely to gather all the needed information. I am more likely to ask appropriate questions. I am more likely to give the benefit of the doubt, and I am more likely to show grace. When I jump to conclusions, there is more hope for a fool.

How about you? Do you jump to conclusions? Does it work out well? Share your experience here and breathe life and bring hope to others.