When Faith Makes the Hard Call
This past Sunday, my husband and I served as event directors for our largest Kiwanis fundraiser—a 12,000-person street fair. This was our ninth year, and it couldn’t have been more perfect: a magnificent, sunny, 81-degree day on October 5th. WOW! It was everything we hoped for.
But three years ago, that wasn’t the case. The remnants of a hurricane threatened the weekend. What we didn’t expect were 35-mph gusts. The night before the event, I couldn’t sleep, listening to the howling wind and worrying about what to do. All week, the forecast teased us—it might die down or turn back out to sea.
I spoke long and hard to God that night. Some of our vendors and nonprofits earn 50% or more of their annual income on this single day. Canceling would be devastating for them. How do we make difficult decisions when every option has a cost?
“When I am overwhelmed, You alone know the way I should turn.” Psalm 142:3
I didn’t “hear” a clear answer, but my heart and gut told me we had to cancel—no matter the backlash. If tents went flying and someone got hurt, it would be far worse.
After that sleepless night, I rose early and checked three different weather apps. At 5:15 a.m., I called the Village Administrator and said the words I dreaded: “We have to cancel.”
We were not popular on Facebook that day. The decision set off a chain of emails and calls—to over 200 vendors, the police, fire department, public works, EMS, and, of course, the disappointed public. It was the right decision, but one that still makes me shudder when I think of it.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
Have you ever been in a situation where you had to make a decision that couldn’t wait—one that affected not only you but many others?
Scripture is filled with people who faced life-changing decisions. Abraham left everything familiar to follow God’s call, but later lied to Pharaoh, saying his wife was his sister. David chose not to kill Saul when hunted, yet sent Bathsheba’s husband to the front lines. The most powerful moment of decision came when Jesus, praying in Gethsemane, said, “Not my will, but Your will be done.”
As leaders, parents, or simply people trying to do the right thing, we will all face moments when choices must be made under pressure, without the comfort of certainty. In those moments, faith becomes our compass. Whether the outcome brings applause or criticism, peace comes in knowing we sought God’s direction and acted with integrity.
Looking back, I see that even in the storm—literally and figuratively—God’s hand was guiding every detail. Sometimes the most faithful decision is the hardest one, but it is also the one that brings the deepest peace.
Reflection
Have you ever faced a storm—real or emotional—where faith had to lead the way?
Share a moment when you trusted God’s direction even when the outcome was uncertain.
Your story might inspire someone who’s standing in that decision place right now.
