I was recently invited to visit someone I have always wanted to meet. I’ve heard about the host for years, read articles about him, admired his work, and frankly, been in awe of his scale of operation. He invited a group of people to visit his office; and by association, I then received an invitation to also attend. This was a very exciting opportunity. I immediately had visions of visiting Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory and the Grand Canyon at the same time…pure excitement, joy, wonder, and awe!
The only problem is that I didn’t receive my invitation directly from the host. In fact, the host doesn’t know I exist. He only knows my friends who invited me. They knew I would enjoy the trip, so they invited me. I really appreciated the invitation.
But, I want to do many things the host also does. I plan on setting up a shop like his. I want to make more products like him. I want to know more about him so I can learn and grow my business.
But, if I’m going to learn from this host, I want him to offer the assistance. I want him to invite me, host me, and coach me. I can’t visit his shop under false pretences.
But, this is the opportunity of a life time!
And, in the middle of this delima, I was listening to North Point Community Church’s series Right in the Eye, and Andy encouraged everyone to memorize Psalm 119:35-37 – “Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.”
How timely!
So, I’m not making this trip to visit. God wants me to treat others the way I want to be treated. He wants me to make wise choices and trust him. This is only one trip. I shouldn’t do what is right in my eyes for the sake of selfish gain and forget the One who has richly provided more than I could ever imagine. I am very grateful for reminders that my desire to do what is right in my own eyes has major consequences for me, the people who care about me, and for those coming after me.
The bottom line is this: God wants great things for you, and you find the most freedom under God’s authority.
So, tell me… Consider a once in a lifetime opportunity. Ask, “What are the consequences if I do what is right in my eyes? What story do I want told later?” Please leave a comment.