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Some Things Are Beyond My Control, But the Most Important Things Are Not
Some Things Are Beyond My Control, But the Most Important Things Are Not
Dick Brant
Over the years I have thought a number of times about my early life, as I am sure many of you have. Things like, why did my childhood seem so hard compared to boys around me, and why did my mom work two and sometimes three jobs? Why did I have to start working in a store at age nine and the other kids were out playing and having fun?
Again, everyone has something in their early life that makes them ask why. Some more than others I suppose, but it is the final outcome that makes all the difference.
Because I didn't think things were all that great at home, I left very soon after my 17th birthday. My mother signed for me to join the Navy and in a week I left home.
During my 20 years active service in the air branch of the Navy I was stationed in a number of places as you might imagine. But of all the places I served, the most life-changing for my family and me was Millington, Tenn.
It was during this assignment we learned the truth of the Gospel in 1964. While it is true, I had no control over the early years of my life, just as many others, but the most critical decision affecting my life then, now and in the future was mine to make. Ours to make.
From that point in 1964, it has been my goal to follow God's plan. Not just the starting point, (this being baptized for the forgiveness of my sins,) but as much as is within my power to follow His plan for daily living and service.
Notice just a few scriptures to guide us as a Christian:
Galatians 6:9-10, "Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith."
James 1:22, "But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves."
2 Timothy 2:2, "The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also."
Hebrews 10:25, "Not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near."
No doubt you could list other scriptures, but I think the point is clear, it is God's Word that guides us each day. The result of faithful living is also apparent as stated by Paul himself. As we live the Christian life, we too should be able to make the same statement found in 2 Timothy 4:7-8, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith; in the future there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved His appearing."
Make no mistake regarding the Most Important decision we will ever make is entirely under our control and only our control. It is a simple yet powerful statement found in Revelation 2:10 that should guide our every thought and action, --"Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life."
