Look Before You Leap

Scripture: But don't begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you. They would say, 'There's the person who started that building and couldn't afford to finish it. (Luke 14:28-30)

Observation: Speaking from personal experience, this passage speaks to the want of what others have. For me personally, I left EMS pursuing a better education and a college degree. I was not fully content with having such a wonderful job that I felt proud of. I'll be honest, there are times now that I look at an ambulance and crave the feel of that adrenaline rush one more time. Where I see that paramedic walk out the front door, with everyone's eyes on them with that look of awe. I didn't forsee that loss in my life. Also the wonderful paycheck, not realizing that perhaps without that paycheck, the college education and degree that I want, may not be attainable anymore. I feel blessed in my life knowing that, even though I gave up all these things, I've gained so much more with my new job at Target. I've found so many new people that are blessing me with knowledge every single day. I'm becoming a better person BECAUSE of that decision. Also, if going to college is something God wants in my life, as long as I stay commited to doing what the Lord has layed out for me, there isn't anything that can get in my way.

Application: I have to learn to be content with what I have. Instead of looking externally for what others have, or that new latest gadget; I must look internally and see what God has already blessed me with. I need to ask the Lord what tools I need to achieve the goals He has set before me. There isn't anything wrong with looking for something that might make your life a little easier, but going all out spending hundreds of dollars on a luxury that I haven't earned, is something that I just can't do.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I'd like to thank You for all that You've blessed me with in this life. I thank You for helping me get more out of my mistakes, so that I may become better in serving You. I'd like to ask that You continue to guide me in life, helping me to see what You want me to pursue, and continuing to give me the tools needed to achieve that. I'd like to thank You for the new people that You have brought into my life now that I'm working for Target, I ask that You use me to bless each one of them, and help me to make an impact on their lives so that they may also come to know You, and live the lives that not only they want, but also the lives You want for them. Amen.