Graduation season is upon us and Stephanie and I have been making the rounds of her friend’s graduations. It has been great seeing people we know and love in the different churches but it also has me thinking.
What is next?
We have seen them walking down the aisle in cap and gown. The speeches have been delivered and the tassels moved. The parties have been given. We have looked at pictures of them as babies and beyond and heard their plans for after.
This has all made me stop and ask myself, what am I hoping for my children when they graduate? One word keeps coming into my mind and that is “continue.”
Continue in their studies would be great. I’m a forever student always learning something. Continue in their walk with God is much much more important.
No amount of schooling whether it IS in the private or public realm can keep them close to God. I want my children to remember that to continue close to God in their spiritual lives brings complete peace, joy and happiness that no education can supply.
Continuing in their spiritual lives brings a leaning on God and trusting on Him for whatever direction He sends them. This continuance comes with a complete surrender to His will.
Are we saying to God, “anywhere but there?” Lord, send me anywhere because I know it will be in Your will.
Anywhere with Jesus I can safely go,
Anywhere He leads me in this world below;
Anywhere without Him dearest joys would fade;
Anywhere with Jesus I am not afraid.
Anywhere, anywhere! Fear I cannot know;
Anywhere with Jesus I can safely go.
Anywhere with Jesus I am not alone;
Other friends may fail me, He is still my own;
Though His hand may lead me over drearest ways,
Anywhere with Jesus is a house of praise.