07/08/2024
***MESSAGE FOR CHRISTIAN BUSINESS OWNERS***
CHASE AFTER YOUR DREAMS...is what the world would tell you. It is my passion and dream to be the best Photographer as much as I do love Photography. However, I've discovered that, as a follower of Christ, your passion for your craft is NOT ALWAYS aligned with your Purpose in Jesus Christ.
Am I saying that's the case for you or me right now? Not exactly. What I AM saying is that when your passion for craft supersedes your purpose for Christ, then you have a much greater issue happening in your heart.
Now, if you're not a follower of Christ, then I understand the core reasoning for your pursuits. You're not thinking about the advancement of the Kingdom of God in your life. I get that, I've been there. If you're a follower of Christ and you think that mindset is not realistic, I also understand. You probably can't conceive a thought process that refuses to mix Kingdom agenda and personal agenda. For the scripture says "to live is CHRIST, but to die is gain" and it says "What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and lose his own soul?"
Wait a sec, but you may be saying: "Paris that's a far reach. It is possible for you to have the business/career of your dreams AND be about the Kingdom of God." My friend, I'm not saying you're wrong, but lets be VERY honest and VERY clear. C'mon lets just park here for a moment and think about our heart posture.
I've weeded out soooo many Photo opportunities that could've made me a bunch of money because I'm leaning in more and more to what pleases God. I can't shoot certain things because my conviction according to the scriptures is that I CAN NOT partake in certain things or be responsible for creating certain images. I'm not here to condemn anyone nor do I believe myself to be more righteous than the next, but lets be real here.
No matter what your career path is, the question is, have YOU created a purpose according to your passion? Or are you seeking to DISCOVER your purpose that was already set by Christ?
Think about that for a moment. Purpose is not meant to be created by us, it is meant to be discovered in Christ!!! That's the meat of what I'm saying here. Please do not misunderstand me. I am NOT saying you can't have money and the messiah.. I'm not saying you can't have career and Christ... My friend, what I am saying is that you must set things in their proper place. Money and Career must NOT take a front seat while Christ sits in the back seat of my life. Thats ALL I'm saying!
I mean, am I telling a lie right now? Help me out. I'm not better than anyone reading this. I'm held to the very same standard as every other believer. Put aside titles, accolades, and positions. No, really, what is your purpose in Christ!???
