by Joshua Bland
I recently got to visit with some former students about perspective. As we all know, life is full of ups and downs. Things too often change much faster than we would prefer.
As a high school teacher, I know that this time of year is full of many, many changes for my students and their families. The term is drawing to a close; new activities will soon occupy their time. Some may begin summer work; others may be welcoming a brother or sister home from university.
The pace also changes for teachers. Summers are spent with family; many do reading, research, or seminars to help as we strive to continue learning.
In all honesty, this is only the tip of the iceberg. Life happens. Jobs change, people move, and loved ones die. As we approach these situations, we find ourselves in the constant question: will I allow God to lead and receive the glory, or am I in it for me. You see, the answer to this question is vital to determining our actions and responses in any given situation. I do not think like God does; my ego still wants, nay craves, authority and glory. Redemption and sanctification are a process of us submitting ourselves anew to the Lord's call to follow Him.
As we move through these times of change following in the command and ordinance of God for His own glory, we need to remember the word of the Lord found in Joshua 1.9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be troubled or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
