In the intricate pathways of life, decisions are the threads that weave together our journey. As I reflect on my own experiences, I am reminded of the significant impact of choices made and the lessons they have etched upon my heart.
From considering a career in psychology or the calling of pastoral ministry, to embarking on the unpredictable road of medical studies and eventually transitioning into real estate, each twist and turn has been an opportunity to witness the divine guidance and sovereign hand of God.
Caring for Minds or Souls: A Crossroads of Calling
The initial crossroads presented itself as a choice between becoming a psychologist, a path that resonated deeply due to my innate desire to help people with their mental well-being, or embracing the role of a pastor, shepherding souls through spiritual guidance. With reverence for the medical and healing professions, I opted to attend seminary and embark on the journey of pastoral ministry.
From Seminary to Serving Souls: An Unveiling of Purpose
Seminary became a transformative chapter. Not only did it equip me for pastoral ministry (2 Timothy 2:15), but it also bestowed upon me the precious gift of meeting my wife – a companion in faith and life (Proverbs 18:22).
Years were devoted to shepherding congregations in Louisville and Indiana, each step solidifying my conviction in the power of spiritual nurture (1 Corinthians 3:6). I was a pastoral assistant just outside of Louisville in a small city called Prospect, Kentucky. Then a couple years later, we went back to my hometown to full-time college ministry.
Navigating the Unforeseen: Reevaluating and Repurposing
Yet, as life continued to move forward, unforeseen shifts emerged. My theological perspectives evolved, guiding me to leave pastoral ministry and embark on a different path (Proverbs 3:5-6). I never thought this would happen.
The call to medical studies beckoned, a pursuit that mirrored my initial calling to heal minds but within a different context. After preparing for three years of prerequisites just to get an opportunity of medical school acceptance, a single semester left me facing failure, prompting questions of direction and purpose (Romans 8:28). This was one of the most disappointing moments in my life. Yet, these trials reinforced me that God’s plans surpass our own (Jeremiah 29:11).
Steadfast in Uncertainty: Walking the Path of Redemption
Doubts and uncertainties swirled, but a new door opened, leading me to real estate – a realm I had not foreseen. In the first year of real estate, I had sold more than 5 million dollars in sales. I was successful for a first-year realtor and was happy to work in this profession and help my family out financially.
Amid the perplexities, God’s faithfulness remained unwavering (Lamentations 3:22-23). It was an unexpected yet gracious provision (Matthew 6:26), a reminder that God often reshapes our paths to reveal His greater purposes (Isaiah 55:8-9). Never allow your circumstances to make you doubt God’s plan for your life. In every season, God has a reason for your trials.
Lessons in Decisions: Anchored in Wisdom and Trust
Today, I stand at yet another crossroads, contemplating the prospect of becoming a full-time missionary and dedicating myself to this website – a platform to reach souls across the globe. This website has grown to over 250,000 views worldwide over the last 10 years, and my goal is to get over 1,000,000 views by 2025 to fulfill God’s commands to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every tribe, tongue, and nation!
It underscores the reality that decisions encompass more than careers; they encompass families, education choices, and the places we call home. Each decision, like a stone cast into a pond, ripples across our lives and shapes our destinies.
In this intricate dance of choices, I’ve learned that while God may alter our plans, having a clear course of action can spare us needless detours. Learning from my journey, I implore fellow travelers to seek wisdom (James 1:5), anchor decisions in trust (Proverbs 16:3) and anticipate the mysterious ways in which God directs our steps (Psalm 119:105).
In the grand narrative of existence, decisions play a central role – a tapestry woven by the Creator Himself. As we navigate life’s labyrinth, may we be attuned to the gentle whisper of God’s guidance and the assurance that even in the complexities, we are held in the palm of His hand (Psalm 32:8).
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