An Authentic Man Must Have Vision

An authentic man must have vision. I'm not talking about looking into a crystal ball, reading your horoscope or visiting a palm reader; I'm talking about an idea of where you want to go and what you want your life to look like. Several years ago, I had no idea of what I wanted to do. I planned on getting hitched, having kids and working a job -- "living for the weekend." Then I began to ask myself, "What is my life going to accomplish? Would I be remembered for making a difference?" NOTHING and NO were the resounding answers.

Real vision involves living with significance and purpose.

The New Testament tell us that Peter, James and John were fishermen. These guys seemed to have no vision and no real hope of significance or accomplishment either. They fished, sold their fish, cleaned their nets, fixed their boats and carried on with everyday life. Then Jesus called them to follow him.

Something similar happened to me. I was living as a paycheck-to-paycheck drunk. Then it happened; I met Jesus. I read about His life in the Bible, and I put my trust and hope in Him. Realizing I had really come to know and understand that Jesus was my only hope quickly and drastically altered my life. In my mind I thought, "if God is real and there is an eternity to be had with Him, then my life must change NOW!"

Through following His example and studying the Bible, I saw how real, "everyday" men could change the world. Those fishermen changed the course of history. I soon felt the call to "missions" and began to pray that God would send me to the nations of the world to proclaim His good news, the truth that people's mistakes, guilt and sin could be taken away, and that they too could know and serve the real God.

Consequently... Real vision comes from God.

He takes us out of self-centered living and helps us live for others. He teaches us what His plan is for our lives. And man, do our old plans seem selfish and shallow. He not only tells us how to live an authentic life, but shows us as well. Good leaders always lead by example. And what better example than Jesus?

Seriously ask yourself these questions. Where is your life headed? If you continue down the same path, where will that take you? What will you be remembered for if you never change?

Stop right now and ask God -- even if you don't believe in Him -- "What do you want my life to be like? If you are real, show me who you are and how I'm supposed to live?"

I believe He will answer you ... so get ready for the ride of a lifetime, the shift to authentic living.