High in the mountains of New Mexico I glassed a herd of elk. They never knew I was there. They were oblivious. The herd bull chased younger rag-horn satellites. The old lead cow walked point as she pulled the others along. They were mere animals - creatures of habit and instinct. What the elk did last year, and each year prior, they will do next year and in the years to come. Elk do what elk do.
Elk don't care whether you like what they did in the past, or value where they went in the past. Elk don't worry that you're pleased about their previous associations or their past behaviors.
Think what you will about an elk's history; they don't care one whit.
You and I are different. We know the truth; our past matters, and what people think about our past matters.
We are not merely animals. We are made in the image of God and we understand. The steps we took yesterday brought us to the place we are today.
Our past marks us. People have confidence in us because of what they've seen and heard. Others depend on us after observing our honesty. We are trusted after we prove trustworthy.
Let's not be deceived. Our behavior today will open, or close, the doors of future opportunity. Our sins will find us out.
Luke 8:17 says: "For nothing is hidden that will not become evident, nor anything secret that will not be known and come to light."
Don't think you'll have no reactions to your actions.
Don't think others will miss that you are missing.
Don't believe your secrets are a secret.
What you do will be known. Where you go will be reported. What you say will be recorded.
Your choice of friends will serve as the measure of your ability to choose wisely.
So I'll offer the following for my young friends. These thoughts may help you make good choices today so you are positioned for success tomorrow.
1. Don't take your clothes off and take your picture.
If your clothes are off take a shower.
2. Don't write an email to your friends with the subject line,
"For your eyes only." If you write an email assume it will be seen
by everyone everywhere forever.
3. Someone is taking your picture with their cell phone right now.
Sit pretty. Stand up straight. Don't slouch. Head up. Chin down.
Smile, you're on candid camera.
4. If you want to win American Idol don't think flaunting your
past as a male stripper will win you points with Simon.
In fact, I suggest you avoid stripping altogether.
5. Someone will surprise you in the future with these words,
"Hi. I've heard all about you." Do what's right and you won't have
to break into a free sweat while looking around for a quick exit.
Your reputation always precedes you. You're under observation.
6. If you plan to be a state governor avoid affairs, cheating, lying and
betrayal. Sexual infidelity doesn't instill confidence.
7. People are watching you and your friends.
Those on surveillance assume you make decisions based on your
values. You'll be associated with your associates. Maxwell was
correct. "The people around you determine your level of success."
They also effect your electability.
8. It's a small planet. We're not trying to get away from "bad" people.
We're trying to bring "up there down here" for all people.
People are watching to see if that is what you are doing.
Their trust and confidence will be established by what they
observe. Live today so you'll have no regrets tomorrow.
If you've messed up, eroding your potential, don't despair. Instead, read Acts 3:19, confess your sins, repent and turn your feet toward Christ. Your next steps will enhance your credibility and increase your potential for consequential living.
Acts 3:19 says, "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord."
Mark,
Great stuff! If you don't mind I would like to share this post with the guys at my Eagle's Nest tomorrow night. These are the things that we (older) need to share with the young men. And just to show that wisdom isn't always just about age, how about Jason Miller! Wow! What insight and wisdom from someone so young! It just shows that God's plans don't follow conventional wisdom. I love being the church with you guys! Keep up the great work, we are praying for you.
Posted by: Dan Clark | March 18, 2008 at 10:37 AM
This is still a great list for us slightly older folks....
Posted by: Gene Ort | March 18, 2008 at 05:42 PM
I am putting your list on my blog. Everyone I know needs to know these things!
Thanks Dad!
Posted by: Amber Cox | March 19, 2008 at 04:23 PM
Great Post...
Posted by: Robert Pooley | March 19, 2008 at 10:50 PM
I thought what was written was good for some people. As children of God we need to know that we can run to God and not run from Him. It almost sounded a little codemning. When we know who we are in Christ, we can know that Greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world. What are scriptures that help a person think and say words that agree with God as far as are identity, sin not having dominion, we have dominion over the devil and the thoughts he brings. To whom much is given, much is required. We all are needed in the body, that I know, and you know. I appreciate your heart for the Lord. I just need to see myself as a overcomer, doors to open for a career that will help teenagers, to find my place. Is it GCC? I would like to know for sure. I would like to have doors open for me to be involved in a Bible study where the Lord leads me to at GCC where I can make a difference. I wish I were younger, but...I am going through "empty nest" syndrome. Jason, I do beleive is very comfortable speaking and sharing. I think he found his place in teaching. I truly love to teach, I would love to teach in a Bible study.
Posted by: Annette | March 20, 2008 at 02:09 PM
Pastor,
Please write a book. I've mentioned this to you before after one of your services. It's time.
Posted by: Tom Faulstich | March 21, 2008 at 10:31 AM