Article September 5, 1988 Issue

The call for a new government in individual lives

We can always choose to be governed by God.

Russ Gerber

Some areas in our world community have been undergoing changes for the better. But other parts of the world tell a different story. And not an encouraging one. Reports of oppression, war, and hatred flourish. And for the individual in all this, chance would appear to play a key role in governing one's life. After all, what choice do we have? Even in our jobs and personal lives aren't we subject to the power and authority of external forces and people to govern what we can or can't do? There's an answer that may not be so obvious.

What we're governed by actually begins with our thinking— with what we choose to obey and with what we believe governs us. Yet how about all those circumstances that seem beyond our control, allowing us no choice? An employer is making unreasonable demands, for example, or a neighbor is showing little regard for those around him, or parents "just don't understand." What choice do we have in situations like these?

I recall a choice I made several years ago. I had felt restless and dissatisfied, and I left my comfortable, high-paying job to pursue a career as an independent consultant. Once on my own, I discovered that I was not prepared for the many unforeseen challenges that came my way. Expenses mounted up. In desperation I tried to reenter the job market but was unsuccessful. Each day brought with it more fear, uncertainty, and despair. It was clear that if something didn't change soon, we would face losing our house. It looked as though my choices were exhausted.

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September 5, 1988
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