My wife grows more and more concerned with my driving. She claims I don't pay attention. Maybe she's right at times. (Please don't tell her) See, sometimes I tend to focus up close on the windshield. Often I'm distracted by a bug that didn't seem to make it up and over my car. You know, the “bet he doesn't have the guts to do that again scenario.” Sometimes I focus on some interesting building or animal way off in the distance. Every so often I’ll even get distracted with what is in my rearview mirror. Whenever any of this happens for long, I put myself in danger because I lose focus and perspective on what is most important, the 100 feet or so right in front of the car.
In life it is important to focus on the 100 feet in front of you with your long-term and eternal destination always in mind. Don't look too closely at the little insignificant windshield spots, the temporal things that frustrate and distract you, and don’t look in the rear view mirror at past mistakes or accomplishments either. Finally, don't focus too far ahead in a way that can cause worry or distraction. Focus instead on the things you know God wants you to accomplish today or this week. Set your priorities for today, make your list, be disciplined and drive ahead one day at a time undistracted by a loss of focus. Accomplish the tasks and build relationships that have the most impact on your destination - your purpose, your goals and eternity. Drive ahead safely with focus.
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Many young adults assume they are on a road to independence. They have pasted the years when parents or someone had to help them all the time. At first every need from eating to well - you know - had to be taken care of by someone else. That was the dependant stage. Over the years more independence occurs and it should. However, total independence is not the end goal. In fact total independence is a myth and would be very lonely and unrewarding. The real end game is something called interdependence. Interdependence involves an appropriate amount of independence mixed with a good healthy amount of dependence too.
God never intended for man to be alone. In fact He said that it wasn't good. From the start He gave man a woman. Later they became a family and eventually friendships occurred as well. All of these represent dependency. As you transition into less dependence on family and friends, don't make the mistake of trying to become too independent, self reliant and proud or resistant to advice. Remember you'll need parents for advice and wisdom, you'll need family for support and enjoyment, and you’ll need teachers, friends, pastors and others too. In addition, remember they need you as well. Support them, encourage them, talk to them, thank them, listen to them, and love them. Finally, I'd be wrong if I didn't remind you of a truth I am sure you know. Ultimately, our complete dependence is on God, our faithful loving friend. Strive for interdependence. Enjoy needing others and be someone people need. |
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