Thrive in College & Career (9)

Have you reached that summit in your career, climbed every rung of the ladder, and left an enduring mark in all that matters? You might be asking yourself, “What’s next?” Especially for those stepping into or navigating through their golden years of retirement, there’s a treasure trove of wisdom to be found in the book of Nehemiah.

Rule #3:  Past > Present > Future.  Nehemiah, upon hearing the heart-wrenching news of Jerusalem’s fallen walls. His first instinct wasn’t to wallow or to strategize alone; instead, he turned to God, fasting, and praying before the God of heaven. This act of surrender and faith teaches us a vital lesson: no matter the stage of life, our first call is to bring our burdens, dreams, and plans to God.

Turning to God with Love and Trust

As mature adults, life presents challenges—transitioning into retirement, health concerns, worries about loved ones, and the state of our world. Nehemiah’s response to adversity—turning to God with unwavering trust—serves as a guiding light for us. Just as Nehemiah did, bring your concerns to God. He’s always listening.

Using Resources Wisely

Nehemiah, through his role as the king’s cupbearer, wisely secured the support needed to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls (even though the king was not from his country). This story is about recognizing and utilizing the resources God has given you. Ask God how your resources—time, experience, finances—can be used for His glory, especially in this season of life.

Paying Attention to What Needs to Get Done

Upon reaching Jerusalem, Nehemiah didn’t rush the work. He took stock, assessed the situation, and then acted. This thoughtful approach is crucial, especially when decisions impact not just us but those around us. Patience and prayer can lead to inspired actions aligned with God’s will.

Be patient and wise in approaching things, especially in matters that involve many stakeholders.  It can be tempting to jump immediately onto an idea because it sounds good, but taking time to do your research, pray and make the best decision for yourself and others increases your likelihood to doing God’s will instead of yours.

Staying the Course and Trusting God

Nehemiah faced opposition but remained steadfast, trusting in God’s plan. Similarly, life’s latter years can bring doubts and detractors. Remember Nehemiah’s example and stay the course, confident in God’s promises for your life.

For those still connected with the working world, remember: the methods that once led to success might not apply today. The shift from a vertical to a horizontal approach in life and leadership—emphasizing collaboration, humility, and putting others first—reflects a timeless principle that also mirrors the heart of God. Encourage one another to adopt these practices, for what brought us here may not be what takes us further in God’s plan.

As you live out this season, let your life be a testament to God’s enduring faithfulness. Matthew 5:16 states  “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”  If you are still in touch with former colleagues who are still active in the workforce, encourage them.  One of the biggest struggles in companies is that senior people who have been successful in the past by having a vertical or siloed mindset, can no longer be relevant in the current environment.

Vertical or silo is out, horizontal is in.  Vertical is the past—driving results and relationships up and down the ladder.  Today, it is all about a horizontal, enterprise-focused approach—flowing connections, collaborations and communications across the organization.  Encourage other mature adults to be humble, to listen more and to put others before self.  The selfless value and practice are timeless.  It worked then and it works now.  It is a fact of life and leadership as a mature person—what got us here won’t get us there.  It’s not enough to perform as is unless we simultaneously transform…in the Lord.

This isn’t just about looking back with nostalgia or even being content with the present; it’s about moving forward with purpose, guided by the unchanging hand of Jesus.

So, as you ponder on “What’s next?” in your journey, remember Nehemiah’s wisdom: turn to God, use your resources for His glory, approach challenges with patience, and remain steadfast in faith. In doing so, you’ll not only navigate this season with grace but will also inspire those around you to do the same.  So go ahead and be relevant and valuable by listening and practicing Godly values that withstands the test of time…Rule #3:  Past > Present > Future.  Yesterday. Today.  Forever.  Jesus stays the same.

After that, go back to Rule #1 https://tjc-chicago.org/college-and-career-7/

 “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”  Matthew 5:16

We warmly invite you to come to the True Jesus Church’s bi-annual Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation.  See details below.

18-21 April, 2024 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation

Thursday, 18 April, 2024 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, 19-20 April, 2023 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, 21 April, 2024 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.

Please find our church location below:

True Jesus Church
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
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For online streaming, please click here.

For regular service hours, please click here.

Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org