I can remember, when I was in elementary school, teachers would ask us to use our imagination and share what we wanted to be when we grew up. Many children would say they wanted to be athletes, others doctors and vets, others wanted to become famous, while I wanted to be a pastor, oddly enough. It can be fun to hear what children say is their goal in life, what they want to achieve. Whether you have been asked or not that question, we all still have goals.
According to the Pew Research Center, 18-25 year olds were asked what they felt were the most important goals in people’s lives. 81% of those asked said that getting famous was the most important goal of the age group asked, and 51% said being famous was the most important goal. These aren’t children being asked the question, they are young adults, people like me. It is sad to see that those goals are what people are striving after and pursuing.
We, as Christians, are set apart from the rest of the world. What drives the unregenerate man should differ from what drives the follower of Christ. Our aim, our goal should be to please God, to glorify His name. Whether you work throwing away trash for a living, or make six figures a year running a business, our goal should be the same. I cannot help but think about the vanity of anything other than glorifying God. Money may pile up, but once you leave this world, it does not follow you. You may have made a name for yourself, but after you leave, life continues and goes on. The only thing that sustains is God. He is never changing; He is consistent, and He is Holy. His character demands glory. We must aim to glorify His name. 1 Corinthians 10:31 says
“Whether you eat or drink, in whatever you do, bring glory to God.”
What is your goal in life? Are you living a selfish life, seeking out gains for yourself? Or, are you living your life sold out to God? God has you where you are for a reason. When we focus in earthly gains, we tend to be frustrated with where we are financially, or even physically. When you keep your eyes on Christ, and seek to please Him and Him alone, you become content with where you are. You thank God for where He has you, and you live to please Him.