We have to be blunt. A lot of our problems arise because of the choices we make. (Not all, as some are as a result of circumstances; others as a result of the choices of others.)
Choices are related to priorities. We choose what we consider to be important. We choose to neglect those things which are less important. The effects of godly priorities and wise choices can be massive.
It was “when kings (usually) go out to war” that King David found himself in Jerusalem, and saw Bathsheba bathing. This circumstance led to his decision to commit adultery, then murder. His son Absalom usurped the throne, forcing David to flee for his life. David had made bad choices; he was responsible for these choices. And he personally bore their consequences.
Some years later, Solomon took 13 years to build his palace, having taken a mere 7 years to build the temple of the Lord. The Old Testament places these two numbers in successive verses; 1 Kings 6.38 & 7.1. Just reading these verses together indicates a wrong priority. It took some time, but his priorities subsequently bore bitter fruit, as his heart was turned from God, and his son Rehoboam was ill-prepared for the conflicts which arose after Solomon had died.
In John 2, Jesus Christ entered the temple, driving out those who bought and sold, overturning their tables. He cried out (v16) “Do not make my Father’s house a home of merchandise!” There is nothing inherently wrong with buying and selling. The problem was one of priority – it was not the place for it.
In the parable of the sower, the seed sown among weeds because choked by them. Such is the effect of bad choices and wrong priorities. The seed of God, planted in our hearts, becomes smothered and unfruitful.
The fruit of the Spirit is self-control. Self-control includes having right priorities and making good choices.