What Should Guide Your Decision in Choosing a Career?

Choosing a career is one of the most significant decisions you will ever make in your life. There are so many variables in this. Some people go into the family business and carry on the legacy. Some people pursue a specific degree for a specific job. Other people dabble in different things before choosing a career. Sometimes family members have strong opinions on what career their loved one should go into. The variables and possibilities are endless. Still, it all comes down to the age-old question, should I choose a career based on money or passion?

Choosing a Career Based on Money

Choosing a career based on money can be both practical and detrimental. Having a job that pays a good salary can ensure the bills get paid on time, money is saved, and plans for the future remain on track. This kind of career gives many people peace of mind in their financial security.

However, it can also be detrimental. Many people in higher-earning jobs suffer from severe burnout, work long hours, and have less time for family, friends, and passions. Sometimes they live lives of excess, living way beyond their means. Sometimes choosing a career based on money can have a higher risk of job loss when company shake-ups happen, profits are lost, or new CEOs take over. At extreme measures, these high-paying, high-stress jobs can lead to people ending their lives or even premature death.

Choosing a Career Based on Passion

What about choosing a career based on passion? This can seem like a more ideal way to choose a career. It, too, comes with its pros and cons. Choosing a career based on passion can be an excellent choice because people know they will love what they do, especially if your passion is in the arts, like writing, music, or other forms of creative expression. Opening a business focused on your passion can also be an excellent choice.

Still, it can be a hard road to go. When opening a brick-and-mortar business, figure out all the logistics, from location to inventory to marketing. The same goes if you are selling your creative art online. You have to figure out how to market yourself and your work. I chose a freelance writer and author career, and even though it hasn’t been easy, I wouldn’t want to do anything else.

Another con about having a career based on passion is the naysayers. Sometimes people will look down on you because you don’t have what they see as a steady job. I’ve had many people say, “Can you make money doing that?” when I tell them I’m a writer. I just smile and tell them, “Yes.” Writers at all levels, from large media companies and newspapers to smaller outlets that employ article writers and bloggers to those who run small, independent blogs, are getting paid to write daily. The story of the struggling writer is gone. Many people make a very good living wage with their words. It takes a lot of hard work, but it can be done.

What Does the Bible Say about Choosing a Career?

The Bible contains lots of advice when choosing a career. One verse that stood out to me is Luke 14:28.

“But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it?” (Luke 14:28 NLT)

When I read this, I think about the cost of our careers—sitting down and thinking about the careers we choose and how they will affect every area of our lives. Will it pay enough money for our expenses? How much time will we be away from our families? If we have to work many extra hours, how will that affect our spouse or significant other? Regardless of what side we are on, money or passion, we should consider how it will affect us and those around us.

I recently read a story about country singer Garth Brooks, and he said that he was a horrible father and husband to his first wife. He went on to say that he and his first wife never really sat down and talked about how his career would affect them as a couple if he became famous. This is a perfect example of counting the cost of a job. I’m not saying don’t go for it, but make sure you know what you are getting into.

“Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.” (Proverbs 16:3 NLT)

This verse reminds us to commit our plans to the Lord and he will help us succeed in his timing. I think this is very important, given the instant gratification world that we live in. His timing is everything.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do and he will tell you which path to take.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NLT)

Even during the hard times in our careers, we need to trust him and ask him what our next step should be. Then wait patiently for his answer.

“The Lord says, I will guide you along the best pathway for your life, I will advise you and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8)

Once again, we need to remember that the Lord is always ready and waiting to guide us.

Merging Passion and Money

Sometimes there are ways to merge your passion and money. A writer can find a steady job at a media company, newspaper, or website and write books on the side. Musicians can sell their recorded music online, teach people how to play an instrument, and play gigs on weekends. Artists can sell their prints, jewelry, etc., online and at in-person events. Home chefs and bakers can sell their meals and treats from a commercial kitchen.

People can merge their passion for making money and be successful in many ways, especially in this digital age. Putting yourself out there and making money from your passion is easier than ever.

Trust the Lord

As always, before making a final decision on a career, consult the Lord first. Choosing a career is a very hard decision. Take your concerns and questions and go to him in prayer about it. Pour your heart out-your hopes, worries, and dreams. Ask him questions.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray. I will listen.” (Jeremiah 29:11-12, NLT)

“You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.” (Proverbs 19:21)

“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.” (James 1:5, NLT)

All the above verses can comfort us in knowing that our Lord has a plan for our lives and that his purpose will prevail no matter what we choose. We can make mistakes and wrong choices, but the Lord’s will always prevails. Pray and wait patiently for his answer. He will make your path straight and lead you to the right career.