We have clear picture of what Nelson Mandela believed was his duty but what do the rest of us consider our duty to our people and our country.

When a man has done what he considers to be his duty to his people and his country, he can rest in peace

Nelson Mandela

As a business owner I believe my duty is to provide quality products to customers and to cultivate a positive work space for all of the people who help provide these products and services. But even deeper I feel a responsibility to show a positive example to the greater community of what real role models and visionaries look like. This idea feels more like a calling than a desire.

As a leader for your family and in your community you have to define your goals and decide what is a satisfactory finish line.  When you are deciding goals and what drives you don’t take it lightly. Be serious and take some time. Be sure about your calling.

 

¹⁰ Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall 2 Peter 1:10

One word that stands out in the original quote from Mandela is “considers” because it implies volumes of thought. To consider takes some time and patience. Patience that will guide you to a clear future. To “rest in peace” as a result of patience towards your duty is reward along the way. Think about your duty or calling and put it into visible words. Place your goals and duties before your eyes. Now you have a road map and a finish line.

There are a lot of instructions in 2 Peter, Chapter 1 but “give diligence to make your calling and election sure” highlights the seriousness of consideration in regards to your duty or calling. Be sure of yourself in this life and you will rest in peace and never fall.