The Right Path

https://odb.org/MY/2022/08/08/discerning-right-paths

Those of us who are parents will always want the best for our children. So we see what are their strengths, inclinations and interests, and we prayerfully direct them to a path we hope will bring the best out of them. In the process we teach them independence – like they drive themselves (but we still repair and service the car ourselves), they get their own food or cook themselves (but of course we buy or cook for them too), do their own laundry and iron their own clothes etc. As much as they still live with us, we want them to make their own decisions – of course, in consultation with us.

Yet as much as we plan and pray, there are times when things don’t go according to plan. An opportunity could have presented itself or circumstances could have changed. Or perhaps our child wants to breakaway from the planned schedule and take a gap year? Or perhaps he wants to explore more of the world or gain experience working overseas before coming home? What do we do? Do we religiously stick to the schedule? Or are we flexible enough to accommodate changes to the plan because in the end, it is their life and not ours anymore? In my case, I’m already at the last leg of my working life before I embark on a different adventure but my own children are just about to make their entry into the working world (actually the elder has just graduated while the younger is still in college).

I think we should make adjustments where necessary but ultimately they must be on the right path with God. They must know their appointed place in God even as they find their place in the world. They must be assured of their salvation and know their Saviour and Lord. Even in the changes that they make, they must seek God and find the reality of God in their midst as they look for a job and even a place to stay. Christ must be present in their lives even as the plan and schedule is revised.

As seniors in the faith, we have a responsibility to not only guide our children but those that we shepherd so that they are on the right path in their careers, ministry and their walk with God. We have the experience and knowledge of the world and the faith; thus must impart that as much as possible to our children and sheep. As believers, it is definitely possible to work our way in the world and yet still remaining firm for God and His Covenant relationship with us, living according to His laws and percepts, upholding His name in all that we do. We can surely be in the world but not of the world. Earn our living without compromising our beliefs and faith in God. Trust and believe God for our children and our sheep. God will be their shepherd and their protector! Amen