I have had several possibilities over the years. Coming out of high school I was doing a lot of
jewelry making. I actually considered going to school for diamond appraisal/Jewelry
design. Another option was a career in Microbiology. Diamond appraisal would
have been a great choice money wise. Microbiology (I had my sights set on
working for the CDC in exotic viruses) would be exciting and rewarding. After
seeing the gem business, I decided I didn’t want the stress nor security risks
that went with it. I soon realized that the type of work in the CDC I was interested
in was not conducive to raising a family. I didn’t like the idea of being on
call 24/7 and possibly missing anniversaries, birthday, or other major
milestones in my family’s life. I decided to be a science teacher.
Later while I was in between teaching jobs, I worked
for McDonnell-Douglas in an information data center. I had only worked there
about 9 months and my supervisor was wanting to send me to supervisor school.
Again, it would have been a great financial opportunity. Several of my friends
did very well with the subsequent mergers and takeovers.
While we were in Arizona, I had a friend who worked
for the Edward Jones financial group. At that time it was #4 in the nation in
job satisfaction. He though I would be perfect since teachers seemed to do very
well. It would have been a huge pay increase, not to mention the opportunities
for regular golf games with clients! I realized it would mean a total career
change. After much prayer and searching I was confident that God wanted me to
continue teaching so I declined. Over the years, I have been able to help and
influence others in building God’s kingdom. You cannot put a price on that.
Do I regret it? No, not really. This week I have
watched how millions of dollars in assets can disappear in just one fire. Add
to that, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes & tornadoes, and bankruptcies
& theft and you really get to see what the scriptures were talking about
when they say “riches are fleeting”.
Would I like to be rich? Sure, why not. But my wife
and I also realized we enjoy seeing God provide. We have numerous stories how
He has provided the right amount, at the right time. It actually seems like it
would be a shame to walk away from that. I remember how forgetful I am…
Proverbs 23:4-5 Do not wear yourself out to
get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at
riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and
fly off to the sky like an eagle.
James
1:10-11 But the rich should take pride in
their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching
heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is
destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go
about their business.
If you
curse me, then I will bless you
If you
hurt me, I will forgive
And if
you hate me, then I will love you
I choose
the Jesus way
If
you're helpless, I will defend you
And if
you're burdened, I'll share the weight
And if
you're hopeless, then let me show you
There's
hope in the Jesus way
Songwriters: Jonathan Smith / Phil Wickham The Jesus Way lyrics © Be Essential Songs
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