by Steve Cartin, MDiv

All of life presents opportunity for looking around ourselves, inside ourselves and at our results in an effort to make tomorrow better than today. God’s Word underscores the wisdom of careful steps, conscientious evaluation and godly counsel.

“Ponder the path of your feet, And let all your ways be established” (Proverbs 4:26, NKJV).

“…be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble” (2 Peter 1:10, NKJV).

God also warns against the pride of proceeding as though we know all that we need to know, refusing godly counsel.

“Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established” (Proverbs 15:22, NKJV).

We can forge through life as though we have it all figured out. Or we can stop, step back, look around, look within and reach out to find the surest steps to success that honors the Lord we serve. In 15 years of working with dentists, I have concluded that three dangers threaten lasting success: shortcuts, an unteachable spirit and the drive for recognition.

The best results I’ve seen come from healthcare professionals who go to whatever lengths are required to get the best result for the patient. And what’s best for the patient is always best for the practice.

1. Think it through carefully. You ponder the path of your feet when you carefully consider every angle of the best treatment plan for your patient, rather than making a quick decision from chairside in a complex case.
2. Listen to people you can trust. With the masses seeking to be social media influencers, it’s hard to separate the chaff from the wheat. Podcasts, online webinars and in-person continuing education are all great. Don’t overlook the contribution of Christ-following brothers and sisters in your own local area who, along with their clinical experience, bring an eternal perspective to the decision points you share with patients, vendors and your own family.
3. Keep the main thing the main thing. The pursuit of excellent clinical dentistry must not be the end all of life. It, and the accolades it brings, must not become the temptation to leave more important things undone—a vibrant personal relationship with God, a loving relationship with family and a fulfilling contribution to God’s work in the world at home and abroad.

In 1 Corinthians 11:31-32, Paul says we should look deep within ourselves and judge the content and motivations of our lives. When we do, not just our patients…not just our colleagues…and even not just our family…but one day our God will say, “Well done…Enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25:21, NKJV).