My son's basketball coach said simply: “Don't let high school basketball be the best or worst thing that ever happened to you in your life. If this is the case, then we have failed as coaches." In other words, enjoy every minute, but make sure that your value, security and success in life are greater than those 1-3 years of running up and down the court trying to shoot the ball into the basketball net.
Living a thriving life requires a long-term view. Here are four reasons:
Having a long-term perspective doesn't mean the immediate doesn't matter. Personal failures, systemic injustices, and major tragedies are real and painful; they stop us in our tracks and demand an answer. But looking at these moments from a long-term perspective allows us to say that the story is not over (and that we are not its authors).
The writer of Hebrews tells us about Abraham's great faith. “By faith Abraham obeyed the calling to go to the country which he had to receive as an inheritance, and he went, not knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the promised land as if it were a stranger, and lived in tents with Isaac and Jacob, joint heirs of the same promise; For he looked for a city that has foundations, whose maker and builder is God” (Hebrews 11:8-10).
Abraham was able to live a long life because he trusted God with his future and because he believed in the ultimate vision and purpose of his life—eternal life with the Creator God. This foundation stimulated his foresight and strengthened his faith. It's amazing what we can achieve and how far we are willing to go with hearts that are in God's hands.
Jesus Christ taught that we should “lay up for ourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in and steal” (Matthew 6:20). This is a long term perspective.
© 2023. Dr. Steven R. Graves describes himself as an organizational strategist, practical theologian, and social capitalist. He advises executives and business owners, as well as young entrepreneurs. Author of numerous books and many articles, as well as a speaker. His website is www.stephenrgraves.com.
Questions for reflection/discussion
NOTE. If you have a Bible and want to read more, consider the following passages: Proverbs 12:11,24, 21:5, 24:27,30-34, 27:18; Matthew 6:19-22, 7:24-27
