Our graduates will reach another milestone in their young lives as they graduate from high school. With graduation comes the next phase of their lives, whatever that may be. For some it will be college, others will join the work force and some may join the military to defend the freedoms we all hold so dear.

Sometimes this is scary. For years someone has been there to guide you through the rough waters you were passing. Someone was there to urge you to follow that which is right, to follow the path that will lead to safety.

Now, you will have to make the decisions. You will have to choose to follow God (Joshua 25:15) or to spurn the love He has for you. We pray that you will embrace God and His teachings. We desire you choose Him instead of following after a godless lifestyle.

Jeremiah urges us to walk with God. “I know, O Lord, that a man’s way is not in himself; nor is it in a man who walks to direct his own steps.” (Jer. 10:23)

Paul informs young people to follow after God as he writes, “Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity show yourselves an example of those who believe” (1 Timothy 4:12) What a wonderful lesson! Are Paul’s words attainable? Definitely! What he says is possible for each one. There must be commitment, there must be faith, there must be love or these things cannot be done.

Aim high and achieve the goals God has for you. A young man was shooting an arrow and it continued to hit the ground instead of striking its target. He was told to “aim higher and do not hit the ground.” For our graduates, I say to aim high, hit your mark. Walk with God and allow Him to direct your steps. As you do you will never have to be ashamed or feel guilt because you are walking with God. God be with you all.