"But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit. The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self- controlled so that you can pray." I Peter 4:5-7

Stephen Covey has written a book entitled, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. It has become the "bible" of the business world and for good reason: He has taken biblical principles and packaged it in business language. His book is intended to help people become more efficient by being focused on the essential things in one's life rather than the nonessential. In other words he says that ultimately, "Where you are going is more important than how fast you get there." One habit that he lists is especially relevant to our lesson this week in the high school class: "Begin with the End in Mind." What he means by this is that when you start with a clear understanding of your destination you will better understand where you are now and in which direction you must walk.

This is true in regards to our walk in Christ. Each of us should "Begin with the End in Mind." We will one day stand before God. How does that affect where you are right now? How does that affect the direction that you are walking? It should give clarity of purpose to your walk in Christ. It should motivate, encourage and direct. The reason that people wander aimlessly in life, many times away from God, is that they have never thought to "Begin with the End in Mind." You can only know how to live if you first know where you are going.