John Mark Hicks writes,

"Jesus reminds his disciples to "lose" their life in his kingdom in order to find it because when we seek to find our life in this world we will lose the life God intends for us."

You should read the entire post -- Professing Professor

When I was graduating high school and working through college, the greatest thought for me was that God had a unique purpose and plan for my life. It consumed me to where I could make educational/career choices without concern for the financial implications. I remember being excited about biblical studies and lectureships and anxiously anticipating what God would bring to fruition in my life.

Looking back on those days, I now am able to acknowledge that with great faith was mixed naivete and pride. But God is good. He has patiently worked out some of the pride. His presence through the years has alleviated much of the naivete. Through it all I have come to a much deeper appreciation for His graciousness. I would have probably given up on me, but He carries on.

Nowadays, I am happy to report that some of those youthful tendencies to think big and smirk at obstacles is returning. I smirk at obstacles no longer because I am proud of the abilities God has given me, but rather, I am confident in what God is willing to do through us. Our ever increasing focus on prayer, as step one, will wash out lingering naivete. God is good.

My dream for all of us at Sunshine is that we would identify less and less with the culture of our society and allow ourselves to be assimilated by God into His Kingdom. I am not just talking about going to Heaven when we die, I am talking about the Kingdom that Jesus said is at hand. Many folks have given up on this society and are just sitting back biding their time until they go on to Heaven. I believe that until we hear the trumpets and see Jesus in the sky, God is still at work. If God is at work, then we can rightly expect Him to channel great power through us as we obey His will. "The Harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few."

Anyone experiencing similar feelings?