As a girl who loves school, I cannot deny the overwhelming pressure in our society that exists to “do school” a particular way. After graduating high school, we’re expected to strive for the gold: a 4-year prestigious university. Maybe after that, more schooling to obtain a master’s degree. And maybe after that, more schooling to earn a doctorate’s degree.

Don’t get me wrong, these institutions serve great functional use. For many careers, learning at these schools are the best way to go. However, I’m afraid that much of our culture looks to these colleges for security rather than their actual use.

To the world, earning a degree guarantees a successful future. But to the church, our security is in Jesus Christ.

The Bible says,

“Thus says the Lord: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the Lord” (Jeremiah 17:5, English Standard Version)

The bottom line is, trusting in school to reach your purpose will never fully satisfy you. The reason being, when base our success in school, we’re actually putting trust in ourselves and our abilities. But Jesus tells us in John 15:5 that “apart from [Him], we can do nothing.”

God is not limited to our abilities, institutions, and systems. In fact, He works in each of our lives uniquely and differently, while remaining His constant, never-changing Self. We see instances all over the bible where God works in uncommon ways to bring about His ultimate plan. He blessed Abraham and Sarah with a son in their old age. He caused the walls of Jericho to fall when the Israelites marched around them 7 times. In the same way, God continues to leave His thumbprint in our lives in amazing ways.

You see, God wants to use your story to reveal Himself to you and to others. Maybe your story involves doing school a different way, like learning online or even directly in your field of interest. Or maybe you story does involve going to a university or college. Whatever the case may be, remain soft before the Lord. Stay constantly dependent on Him for guidance on your next move.

The way to true success in the Bible is found in Joshua 1:8 which says,

“ Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do” (Joshua 1:8, New Living Translation).

Becoming a student of His Word is what brings security. This does not necessarily mean material prosperity, but it does mean that no matter where God leads you, you will be taken care of.

To wrap it all up, I am not saying that school is bad. And I am not saying that not going to school is good! What I am saying is that God works in more ways than just one. You are special with a very unique story. Consider what exactly it is that God has for your life and work with Him to find the best possible route to get there.

Doing the Uncommon