As the president of many different universities, I have seen students from all wakes of life pursue an endless number of degrees. Some want to make a difference in the lives of animals and hope to become vets, much like myself, when I was 18. Others want to become successful lawyers, doctors, entrepreneurs, social workers, writers, and more. No matter the end goal, the journey starts in college. Students are here to earn the degree that will bring them one step closer to accomplishing those dreams.
Having dreams is critical and human. I can’t encourage students enough to chase their dreams – but there is one caveat. In the pursuit of our goals, we must not forget who is responsible for these aspirations. God created each of us with a purpose in mind. No matter the vocation, the most important to remember is to keep God within our hearts – and it can be easy to lose sight of this.
While aiming for your dream job, you can quickly become wrapped up in a great deal of stress. College is one of the most trialing times of your life, and it will push you to your limits at times. Acing a test or mastering an academic milestone is undoubtedly something to strive for, and to celebrate when achieved. However, you must be intentional about remembering for whom you are studying. As Paul mentions in Colossians 3:23-24:
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord, you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ
Perspective is everything in college, as your goals are to be set on studying for the Lord rather than for that perfect 4.0 GPA. Do not sacrifice your righteous soul in the pursuit of your desired career. Remind yourself that without God, there would be no dreams to chase, jobs to aspire for, or pride in achieving these things.
Above all, a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate are only pieces of paper. Without trust and faith in the Lord, you will never reach your goals or be fully satisfied in your profession. While studying and writing term papers, don’t let your devotion and love for Him go awry.
Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. (Proverbs 16:3)
This article was originally published on MarkSmithCIU.com