What would seem like an obvious conclusion to one can be completely opposite to the conclusion of another. Because our paths of life are so unique and are shaped by circumstances and events that are ours alone, many times we see things in unpredictable ways.

Some opinions are nothing more than water cooler discussions. It’s usually the news topic of the day and just a ritual of human engagement.

The opinions that are more significant are those expressed about how we do what we do, and what we should or should not do about a particular situation. If we listen closely enough we can hear various opinions about things we deal with given by people who have no history in the same arena. Everyone has an opinion.

Opinions do have their place and those shared by people closely associated with us should carry some weight. But remember, they are just opinions.

As we close out another year we will undoubtedly reflect back on how successful we were in achieving the goals we set out to accomplish at the beginning of the year. If we gauge our progress only by the opinions of others we are relinquishing one of our most powerful abilities; honest self-criticism.

Some opinions will say that you did a terrific job but only you know if you really did your best.

Some opinions will say that you could have done much better but only you will know what you had to overcome to do as much as you have done.

Some opinions will say that you should have done it differently but only you will know what it took just to maintain.

Some opinions will say that your purpose in life should be re-evaluated but only you will know the certainty of the dream God has placed in your heart.

Some opinions will say that you will never make it but only you and God will determine that.

After all, the greatest opinion is the opinion of who we believe God to be and what we believe about His involvement in out lives. If our opinion is that God is all powerful, we certainly can overcome any obstacles that are placed in the path of our success. If our opinion is that God is all knowing, we certainly can get insight from Him to accomplish any goals we have. If our opinion is that God is love we can trust that he has our best interest in mind and that He has our back and will see us through every difficulty we face.

“When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by man, but by my Father in heaven.” Matthew 16:13-17 NIV

Opinions can matter and everyone has one. That’s my two cents worth. What’s yours?