I've asked God what His plans are for me, and He hasn't yet told me specifically. He told me to take things one step at a time and for now go to the University of Oklahoma and get my Gen. Eds out of the way and that He'd let me know more when I was ready, just like Christ told the disciples in John 16:12. This was given to me back in May and I feel like He doesn't want to give me too much information before I'm ready for it. He doesn't want me getting in over my head when I'm not yet strong enough in Him. I have a lot of room to grow; this is something I'm transparent about.
The reason I chose a Social Studies Education Major is because I thoroughly enjoy History, it's something that I've always been interested in, and in the words of David Boren, "Those who have been given opportunities to observe have an obligation to share with others what they have learned." I've always respected teachers as some of the most crucial players in human development. They encourage, uplift, train, instruct, and act as parental figures to a lot of youth and that's something that I could definitely see myself doing. Social Studies encompasses multiple subjects such as Geography, Government, History, Social Sciences, etc. This will allow me to teach multiple subjects if at first I fail to find a History position in the towns I'm interested in. I expect to declare a History Minor soon as well.
That's what I have decided to do. Whether that's what God has decided for me to do or not, I don't know. His plan comes first, and I'm more than willing to alter my plan to fit His, but so long as I'm at University I want to have a specialized plan of study until such a point that God gives me His own.
Back in April I received a calling "..to minister through media, writing, and education." God established in me a desire to be a writer since an early age and I've been writing short stories and such since I was a child. In the last few years this passion has expanded beyond the realm of fiction and I have learned the power a person has through expressing their opinions and passions by the written word. "The pen is mightier than the sword," and I've learned that by being vocal with my thoughts, I can greatly influence others. Some might use this for personal gain, but I know my gift comes from God and I trust in Him to guide my hand and only let me give voice to things that line up with His Word.
In addition to writing, the last three years has seen my interest in photography skyrocket. While I am not as gifted as some, I do know there is a talent there and I fully plan on developing it to its fullest potential. I know that I can use this to bring glory to God by documenting different ministries and missions. Many people fail to see the importance in giving towards missions and missionaries because they are never given a chance to see the impact being made around the world. I want to use my gift as a photographer to bring these things to light so that the more fortunate can see how important it is for them to sew their seed faithful and wisely. Also I know the Lord provides for those who are faithful to Him, and I know that teachers don't make much money. If God has in fact called me to be a teacher, then it would explain why He gave me this other gift on the side. If I'm going to provide for my family to the extent that they deserve, then doing photography on the side will be a great opportunity to close the financial gap between what my career provides and what my family deserves.
Now I'm sure some of you are wondering why I'm questioning if I should be a teacher, when His calling specifically mentioned education. There are more ways than one to teach. I guess when I say I don't know if I'll be a teacher, I should specify Public Educator or School-Teacher. I'm absolutely going to be a teacher, I'm just not sure which kind. Over my life I've had multiple people prophecy over me that I would end up in the ministry, specifically a Senior Pastor at a church. I do feel a drawing in that direction, but I have not heard God's Word to confirm it. While those who prophesied over me were very trusted individuals in my life, I don't want to plan my future off of what someone said who may have been mistaken. Until I hear it from God Himself, I'm not going to put all my hope in it, because that wouldn't show wisdom. The last thing I want to do is end up in the ministry when it's not God's place for me. Then I wouldn't be living up to my potential, and I wouldn't be qualified as a preacher or pastor. So when God says education, He could mean Preacher/Pastor, Missionary, School Teacher, or just an example for people to look up to! Education might not even be a career, but rather, an example of a good Christian man for people to go to when they need help. Nothing is certain in my life yet, except that God has the reins and He'll lead me where I need to go. If He feels like I don't need to know everything yet, then who am I to question it? All will be revealed in good time!
So that's where I'm at now, and that's the real Scott Emigh. Your prayers are appreciated and your support is much desired. I love you all, and thank you for taking the time to read this! God Bless you and keep you.
PS: Comments are much appreciated, as well!