Follow God's plan for your future success

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

- Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Forty years ago, I sat in a blue cap and gown and anxiously waited for my name to be called so I could walk to the stage and receive that priceless piece of paper stating I held a degree as a registered nurse.

I kept my attention glued to the speaker, afraid I'd start drifting off in a daydream and miss my name when it was called. When the speaker announced my name, I took my place in line in the aisle along with others dressed in their graduation attire, hoping to make it across the stage without tripping or embarrassing myself.

I shuffled behind the person ahead of me. Suddenly it was my turn, and I approached the steps. I drifted across the stage as if in a dream. A quick handshake and my diploma in hand, I marched off the stage walking into the unknown future awaiting me.

My career has taken many twists and turns in the past 40 years.

This year, graduation ceremonies may not take place the traditional way we're used to. But one thing that remains the same is that feeling of accomplishment.

Whether you're graduating from college, high school, junior high, or taking a new journey in your life, God has a plan designed to help you find the road to success. I'd like to encourage you to do things God's way as you go down the path to your future.

First and foremost, keep the mindset to serve. Christ washed the feet of each of the 12 disciples, giving us an example to serve on another.

We are called to serve in everything we do. Companies have been known to have great success when customer service was top priority. A heart concerned with the welfare of others will go far.

Next, remember good character opens doors that no degree can shove open. The Bible tells us God lifts one person up and brings another one down.

Being dishonest, stepping on toes and thefts are not the way to make it to the top. Showing common courtesy with words such as "please" and "thank you" will help you win the cooperation of others better than a self-centered spirit. Speaking in love and not belittling others also shows you have good moral character.

Always pray and seek God's best. His best may not always look the same as your best. If you follow God's guidelines for your future, it won't always be easy, but you'll be blessed in the long run.

Congratulations, you're on your way to fulfill your destiny!

• Annettee Budzban is a Christian author, speaker, life coach and nurse. She can be contacted at Annetteebudzban@aol.com or call (847) 543-8413. Invite her to be your personal life coach.