One Life and the Future

One of the most common complaints of thoughtful older persons is that they were not guided in their early years to the point of thinking seriously about: who they are, and what they want to be.  When I ask older children about their futures I usually receive a poor answer that reflects neglected parenting, or a general disregard for the matter from individuals important to those I question.  There is abundant testimony from successful persons about their early thoughts and experiences relevant to their adult lives.  Self-identity is largely left to the individual to determine, but there are many exchanges with parents and teachers or mentors (especially family members, counselors and pastors) who can help in the process.  We are concerned on this Page with that which will occupy our mortal years in both occupation and preoccupation.  I am disturbed to discover, during seventy years of close observation, how many Christian youths I have met who have had no background, or little, in searching for their direction for life.  It is tragic that many stray from a religious system that seems to them to be so heavenly minded that there must be little good for earth.  I muddled along until two large influences entered my life.  One was my Christian commitment, from which I emerged wanting to know my life direction, family and work for my mortal years.  My new pastor took an immediate interest.  During the same period my high school district (secular) launched a research program for testing students about what they were most suited to become.  From each of the high schools in the district that included twelve high schools, I was selected as the boy representative of West High in Akron, Ohio.  The combination of experiences contributed to meaning for my life, in large scope.                                 

If persons are honest about their life contexts they can become just about anything they want to be within boundaries they discover within themselves.  If they find lack of talent, energy, or some other vital characteristic, they may find fulfillment in assisting others to achieve in the area that interests them.  We can gain considerable satisfaction and realization through mentoring others in some ways.  A choice is well made in the larger scenario: if faithfully ordered; if it is likely a contribution of needed service to others; if it is beneficial to the context of one’s family in some way; if it does not interfere (not spoken against) with the meaning of Scripture and enlightened conscience; if there are available resources, or promise for them; and, if there is agreement from those to whom seekers owe some consideration, to share in the venture.  Each of these, except for the first one (within self-boundaries), is rather easy, but time consuming with patience and application – to outline and evaluate.  Some factors will need amendment along the way as change factors and time lapses affect the plans.  (World War II changed my planning.)

The first point may be analyzed by personal energy available; agreement by one or more persons with whom the objective is related; by practicality for the personal and professional application involved; by prayerful and sustaining conscience and faith; and, by a venturesome spirit that perceives something of the future and is willing to make the investment of time and fortune (as in the cost of any needed education) to gain the ultimate objective.  This all relates to making achievable goals, some measured, and a sense of making stated objectives a reality.  It also means that visionary persons must be clear about the will of God in doing whatever must be done.  The will of God goes with us in whatever we choose if it is fitting to values and service.  Many persons miss that awareness, believing that somehow the will of God must be related to geography.  It may be, of course, but if so, is one of several factors to consider.  I can find the will of God for me where I am.  He may do more for me in some other place, but God is with me, in my obedience to his will for life.  Abraham was in God’s will whether in Ur of Chaldees, in the land of promise, or in Egypt.  We need that awareness to live and minister life well wherever we may be found. It is important to remember that common experience, and the ordinariness of life all fits into the plan of God for us.  If we miss the first and best plan, there is another admissible to the Christian who may need recovery from personal turn, misstep, uncontrollable circumstances, or some such.  God holds strong interest for faithfulness in our service.  We need the spirit of obedience to God as directed by Scripture.