Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life. – JOHN 6:27
Life has some similarities to a football game. Our lives are broken up into 4 quarters with some people living in overtime. Like a football game, the goal is to finish well, assuring that you leave all you have on the field with no regrets. What can be easily overlooked is the purpose God has for each quarter.
Since the average lifespan is 75 to 80 years, the first quarter of life is usually from birth to 15-20 years old. The purpose of this season should be for them to “Get Wisdom.” In Proverbs 4, a father tells his son, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” Pouring wisdom into your young employees can help prepare them for a fulfilling future.
The second quarter is usually people who are in the 20-40 age bracket. As we try to get our careers off the ground, we will tend to make mistakes and learn hard lessons. This is part of God’s character development. Titus 2:6 teaches, “Encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed…” When possible, help your young leaders not to get discouraged by the hard lessons they will learn during the character development phase.
The 3rd quarter of life is typically people who are 40 – 60 years old. I would refer to this as the Discovering and Maximizing Your Calling season. In the 3rd quarter, many begin wondering if there is more to life than just success in business. They desire to make a difference with their life’s work. God has a purpose for your vocation. If you’re in your 3rd quarter, now’s the time to prayerfully identify and maximize your professional calling.
The 4th quarter of life is typically those who are 60-80 years old. This is the season to turn your attention from yourself to others. It’s time to leave a legacy. Leaving a spiritual and financial legacy is a worthwhile pursuit. This requires being proactive and intentional in pouring your wisdom into others who will hopefully be following in your footsteps. As you age, recognize that you have much to offer the younger people within your organization, especially if you have been self-controlled and worthy of respect.
Think and pray
Are you counting down your days, or are you making your days count?
Father, help me to live today and every day purposely and intentionally all for your glory. Amen!
Copyright 2022, Unconventional Business Network. Adapted with permission from “UBN Integrity Moments”, a commentary on faith at work issues. Visit www.unconventionalbusiness.org for more info. UBN is a faith at work ministry serving the international small business community.