For the most part, I'm happy.
Although my days aren't as thrilling as they were in college, I like being an independent, stable adult. I've got a reliable job and a stocked fridge, and I pay my bills on time, which is more than most can say in this messed-up economy.
Still, despite feeling content with my life, there's always this nagging pressure to do more.
If you're single and working, many people will question your timeline for starting a family. If you already have a family, some folks will criticize you about your career trajectory. And if you're juggling everything simultaneously, someone will find something negative to say about your approach to self-care.
In a world filled with competition, comparison, or just plain nosiness, everyone has an opinion about how you should live. However, I've learned that you'll never experience joy trying to please or prove yourself to everyone. To be genuinely happy, we must all run our own race.
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us." Hebrews 12:1
When we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, he gives us new identities that grant us freedom from sin, meaningless striving, and selfish ambition. Instead of aspiring for power or validation, our priorities shift toward pleasing God with righteousness and truth. In doing so, we begin to live peacefully and set ourselves on the path to genuine success.
So, as lovely as it would be to have more (who wouldn't want a vacation home in the West Indies?), I've surrendered my pursuits to the Lord. And while it may be countercultural to chill and wait for what's next, I'm faithful that God has a plan. Until then, I'll rest in the understanding that since I was created by the great I AM, I am more than enough.
Dear God,
Please deliver us from the fear of feeling like "nobodies" and affirm our worth in our identity as your children.
Remind us of the value of peace and challenge our desires for personal glory.
Change our hearts and teach us to shed our selfish ambitions, live authentically, and lead a joyful life pleasing to your sight.
In Jesus' holy and precious name, we pray. Amen.