FutureCast

By Debleaire Snell

fter pastoring for more than 20 years, I still meet a surprising number of people who think that if they fail at life, it is how things should be. They will say, “Pastor, this was in the cards,” or “Pastor Snell, I was always going to end up this way.”

Some believe that if their parents or grandparents made terrible decisions in the past, they will make the same mistakes. Whether they use the word or not, many believe that failure is in their destiny, no matter what they do or how hard they try. However, others believe they don’t have to regard their choices or actions because they come from a long line of successful people and environments.

And, I have to be honest; it would be nice to think that no matter what I do, or whatever choices I make, I’m going to succeed because I’m supposed to. So, if my father is a successful businessman, I will be too. If my mother marries well, I will automatically make excellent decisions regarding romantic relationships. If my family is known for being great scholars, I should get through school without even trying.

That simply isn’t the case.

Before we go further, I need to acknowledge that because of this sinful world, there are those of us who are born under specific circumstances that may make it more difficult for us to succeed. I also know that others are born into a life of remarkable privilege, often receiving things that allow them a better start. However, we all must understand that what we consider or believe to be “destiny” involves more than a person having no control over how their life turns out. Your destiny isn’t a permanent finish line that waits for you no matter what direction you run in this race. Your destiny is based on your choices.

Recently, we all watched the swift demise of Prince Andrew, second in line to the throne behind his brother. By all accounts, being born into royalty made him destined to be the next possible King of England. But two years ago, the prince was stripped of his royal title and military affiliations due to terrible life choices and friendships he made. The prince’s future is now in shambles because of his actions. Instead of living a life of luxury and privilege, news reports indicate that he lives a life of regret.

There is a King of all Kings in this Christian walk, and we have been born into the royal priesthood. But even though our steps are ordered (Psalm 37:23), even though the Lord has plans for us to prosper (Jerimiah 29:11), we still have to choose to walk hand in hand with Him and live in His will.

Philippians 2:13 says, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” When you open your life and your heart so that God can work in you, it is only then that you can walk boldly into your destiny.

DeblEaIre Snell is the Speaker/Director of Breath of Life, a media ministry, and the senior pastor of the Oakwood University Seventh-day Adventist Church in Huntsville, Alabama.