FOOY Views
by Jeremy Morris
Starting from our school days, a frequently encountered question from adults and our classmates was, "What do you want to do when you grow up?" I fondly remember the times when I proudly said that my choice was an astronaut, or maybe a doctor, and yes, even for a short time, a fish farmer. As we mature from the young kindergartners to young men and women in high school, hopefully our choice of a career will change as well. The fantasies of the big leagues or famous rock-n-roll bands gradually give way to accountants, construction, nurses, and teachers. One of the most important questions that we must consider is, "How will this career or job opportunity affect my life as a Christian?"
Such a question, unfortunately, is often asked too late or not at all. Far too often the story is told that a person accepts a job, moves their family, and only then do they consider how and where they will serve the Lord. Paul instructed the church at Colosse to, "set you affections on things above, and not on things of the earth" (Col. 3:2). Power, possessions and greed are so second nature in our society that a young Christian, relatively new in the faith, is often led down these seductive and destructive paths. If you choose a career based on a high salary or on prominent social or corporate status, then you have chosen incorrectly.
There are many decisions that affect the course we will take in our life. Our walk with God and our life time mate are two of the major, but our career is vital as well. Think of how much impact something will have on who you turn out to be if you participate in it forty hours a week for thirty-five to forty years. If your job takes you away from a faithful congregation, how important is it? Matt. 6:33 states, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." Our sole purpose in life is pleasing God and doing his will. In this light, how will the career you choose fulfill this goal, or will it hinder it?
A final note to you young women who are seeking to find your future place in the world. It is good for you to obtain a college degree if that is your goal, but the career of a homemaker is very noble, indeed. The world may recognize women of corporate excellence, but my praise goes to the women who have chosen against such pressures and decided that to stay at home and serve God in such a way. And I do not believe I stand alone. No paycheck or plaques can replace the joy of seeing your children grow personally instead of from the baby-sitters stories.
"For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (Matt. 6:21). As you choose you career or consider taking that job offering, ponder on the bigger picture of how such decisions will hinder or aid you in your life to God. Far too many young people our age have chosen present rewards and luxuries over patiently waiting for those in the world to come. For these, the words of Christ in Matt. 6:2 ring clearly, "They have their reward."
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