Question. Is now the time to pursue things not directly related to God?

[Slippery]

I am mulling over entering into a Doctorate program in Political Economy, if God is willing, but with the way the world is, and the way things are going, I have a feeling that I am being selfish, and that I will be wasting time pursuing it.
I mean the degree should take about 4 years, but what would be the condition f the world in the next 4 years for hopefully a Christian professor of Political Economy? Wouldn't I be chased off of campus and be an outcast in the academic industry :confused :confused

Is there anyone in grad school or anyone who is currently investing in a career that will start in the next 3 to 4 years?

[scottruff]

FWIW, I became a Christian in 1973 and learned about Biblical prophesy and the Rapture at the same time. At that time I became absolutely convinced that this old Earth couldn't possibly go on beyond 1977. Guess what?! Yes, I believe that the time is near. However, 'near' is a relative term. How near is near?

Don't fall into the same trap I did. Get educated. Start a career. Do all of these things as if you will live here and grow old, you might, but do so always looking up and knowing that you might not.

[blessanna]

Only you can answer what path the Lord is leading you. Ask God to direct your steps. Don't give up because you are worried about the future or change your plans based on information you don't have. Seek God's counsel and follow His lead. If you make yourself available to God He will use you to further His kingdom. I do believe you can make a huge difference for the Kingdom as a Professor of Political Economy. Where is God calling you?

[LanceVB]

In my humbling opinion, I do not think a believer can tell another believer how the Holy Spirit will lead or guide him. If Noah was around today, half the Christians would think he was nuts, but he was doing God's will. (I know it was a different dispensation and all).

I believe each person has to be sensitive enough to have the Holy Spirit lead and guide you in your life. I admit I still have my moments just like you about certain things that come up in my life.

Ask for wisdom as per James, maybe ask if this isn't your will Father for me to go this way, please make it apparent, please open another door.


Grace
Lance

[Crescendo]

I'm in a similar situation. Mind if I PM you for an exchange of ideas, Slippery?

[cameron222]

At the risk of being a hypocrite.......should we be pursuing anything at anytime that is not in direct relation to God?

[Jiggy37]

At the risk of being a hypocrite.......should we be pursuing anything at anytime that is not in direct relation to God?
I once asked a question like that in a thread titled Do we really have the right to the pursuit of happiness? (http://www.rr-bb.com/showthread.php?p=1524995#post1524995). I didn't get very many responses, and perhaps for good reason. :wacko I suppose that might be seen as a radical question, but you know what? I'd rather be radical and with God than to fit in--even among my fellow Christians--and be against Him. We have to find the truth...

[faline]

I don't know...I think the Lord gives us the capacity to enjoy some things. I enjoy classical music, I am enthralled by the dancing skills of Gene Kelly and Donald O'Connor, I love the work of Monet...

These things are not directly related to the Lord, but I know he is the God who gives each person their talent, and I am so grateful to be able to enjoy what God gave them.

[antsinmypants]

I don't know...I think the Lord gives us the capacity to enjoy some things. I enjoy classical music, I am enthralled by the dancing skills of Gene Kelly and Donald O'Connor, I love the work of Monet...

These things are not directly related to the Lord, but I know he is the God who gives each person their talent, and I am so grateful to be able to enjoy what God gave them.


Right, and not only that, our interest in different subject matter (Ballet, classical music, hip-hop and modern dance/ballet.. dressage.. etc) opens doors to discussions with people you probably wouldn't meet otherwise-- to which you can ALWAYS witness to :):

Including if you are a teacher/Professor. :D:

[Mountain Girl]

If you have prayed about going back to get your doctorate, and you have a peace in your heart about it, then by all means, get enrolled!

I believe we are living in the last days.......Jesus might return for us in the next few minutes, or He might not return for several more decades.

We need to live our lives like we are going to live to be a hundred, but always prepared to meet Him at a moment's notice!

[Receptive]

Everything you do is directly related to God.

Col 3:17 And everything, whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.

I am confident that wherever you are, and whatever you are doing, you will be forming relationships with people who will see your light shining, the hope which is in you that Jesus is returning soon as he promised, as you seem eager to please Jesus and give the glory to him.

[Slippery]

I'm in a similar situation. Mind if I PM you for an exchange of ideas, Slippery?
no problem Crescendo, I actually welcome it.

[Slippery]

thanks a lot for the comments guys. I am glad to know that I am not the only one in this predicament.