Vision

There is an ominous story I have been hearing repeatedly which may or may not be what you want to hear. It is in regards to the new economic horizon developing out there in a world some have been calling increasingly “flat” because of the growth of a global economy and the internet. I can tell you stories of young people going off to college and spending four years and considerable treasure to get a degree which is largely unmarketable. They then struggle finding jobs and end up in food service or various entry-level positions they easily could have taken right out of high school. The worst-case scenarios involve students who have accumulated mountainous debt while pursuing that supposedly ‘magical’ college degree.

There are many good reasons for going off to college and pursuing a liberal arts education that never translate into economic well-being. It opens your eyes to another world that exists beyond the level of high school proms and pep clubs. It exposes you to people who think deeply about things and love books and learning on a grand scale. And if pursued successfully, a college education sharpens the mind in countless ways and deepens ones understanding of the world around us. That is never a bad bargain. That is one big reason we urge our students to follow or pursue the university path. We have had no regrets in sending our children off to college, yet I am torn for young people today who feel the pressure to go to college and “amount to something” even if they have no clear vision for their life. Some end up “finding themselves” in college, but far too many pile up nothing but debt and frustration and set themselves up for keen disappointment upon graduation.

The other side of this story involves some very bright and gifted young people who have either shunned or dropped out of college and taken jobs in the general business sector. These Christian young people applied themselves in an honest and forthright manner and soon found themselves prized employees because of their values and work ethic. Before long, they were managers of stores and directors of companies. As cream rises to the top, these young people rise quickly in the ranks if for no other reason then that they don’t steal, do drugs, and lay out of work whenever it pleases them. I can’t help but compare these success stories to those just graduating college encumbered with debt and inflated expectations that can never be realized.

We are living in a changing world. A college degree used to come with guarantees. It no longer does. For those who can afford it without strain and debt, it is seldom a regret. But beware of those who sell college dreams and want you to become their indentured servant for the next ten plus years with easy loan on top of easy loan. It can be as deadly as an internet scam letter. Yes, I want to urge all our students to develop all the academic prowess they possibly can while they are in school and to aim high. But I pray that they will also seek a vision for their life. That comes through reading, working, hobbies, experiences, watching skilled people in action, and seeking the Lord. A young person with a clear vision will overcome all obstacles and not waste time in the process. Secondly, I pray they will develop Godly character. In a world that has lost its way, nothing will ensure success more than just good, Godly character. It will make a way for them when all else fails. One day, the meek shall inherit the earth. How often do I not see them inherit the company when everyone else lives but for themselves.