In today’s culture, we are constantly bombarded with the message that we should pursue our dreams and follow our passions. The media, self-help gurus, and even some Christian leaders tell us that if we just believe in ourselves and do what our heart desires, we can achieve anything. However, following one’s heart has done more damage to relationships, testimonies, the church and lives than can be counted.
The Bible is clear that we should not simply follow our own hearts and desires, for “the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick” (Jeremiah 17:9). The Proverbs repeatedly warn us against leaning on our own understanding and instead seek the counsel of wise advisors (Proverbs 3:7, 12:1, 15, 18:1, 19:20). Individualism and self-reliance, which are so highly valued in our culture, are in direct conflict with the biblical instruction to submit to godly counsel and guidance (Proverbs 3:7, 12:1, 15, 18:1, 19:20).
In the end, the Christian life is not about pursuing our own dreams and desires, but about submitting to God’s will and seeking to glorify Him in all that we do. As the Apostle Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).
Rather than pursuing your own passions, I would encourage you to seek God’s design and purpose for your life. The Bible teaches that we are “God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Ephesians 2:10). When we align our lives with Scripture, we will find true fulfillment and joy, even if it doesn’t align with the dreams and aspirations our culture tells us to pursue.
So, I would encourage you to be wary of the cultural message to “follow your heart” and instead seek the counsel of wise, godly advisors and submit your desires to the Lord. In doing so, you may find that the path He leads you down is far more fulfilling and meaningful than the one you had planned for yourself.
