Ask Jessie / I have a really strong desire to be an actress and live in Hollywood. I want it so bad that it hurts to know how small the chances are, and that it may not be what God wants for me. I know it's not right, but I've been avoiding what God wants me to do because I am scared it may not be acting in movies. What should I do?

Hey sis,
I can definitely understand the draw to want to be a part of the Hollywood lifestyle. It seems fun and glamorous and exciting, especially to a teen who loves acting. You're also right that acting is a tough field to get into!

There isn't anything inherently wrong with acting or being in movies (clean ones), but the Hollywood environment itself is dangerous. Until you experience it, you don't think about how disgusting it can be. I actually wanted to work in film and started out college as a film production major. To get a little experience on a set, I started working as an extra in movies and music videos in LA. It was really fun at first to be on the set and get to go through costuming and make-up, but the novelty of it wore off really fast and I was left with the disappointing reality that most of the people I met were completely immoral. Plus, it's really hard to find "clean" rolls, especially when you're just starting out, because to "make it" you can't be picky! A few times I would accept a call and then find out once I got there that it was a bar scene or that I had to wear a hoochie outfit.

I found out in a hurry that it's no wonder God calls very few Christians to be part of the entertainment industry. I felt lonely. I hated the sexual harassment, crude language... and LA traffic! After a year, I switched my major and said good riddance to Hollywood.

That's just my story, and others might have a different take, but I share it with you because I think we girls get so starry-eyed by the idea of Hollywood or modeling that we never stop to think that it might not be what's best for us. That's one of the amazing things about God. If He's telling you that He wants to lead you in a different direction, it's not because He doesn't want you to have fun or realize your dreams. It would only be because He has something much better for you! I have no idea what that might be, but I can guarantee you won't be disappointed. For me, God gave me writing and an amazing husband instead of a career in movies, and I've never looked back. Only time will tell what God has in store for you, sis. But if you're willing to let God lead you, life is an amazing journey with many unexpected outcomes.

As a final thought, take some time to let God search your heart and reveal what motivates you to want to be in movies. I'll be honest: Most of my motivation for wanting to work in Hollywood was plain ol' pride. I wanted to "be someone"; I wanted to make a name for myself. If that's true of your heart, it might be time to do a little Spring cleaning. If you're serious about your relationship with God, if you trust Him completely, let Him have total control of your life. Don't hold so tightly to your dreams of fame and fortune that He is forced to discipline you to get you to let go. It's much easier—and less painful!—when we freely offer Him our dreams in the first place.

"A man's heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps" (Proverbs 16:9).

"The LORD directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives" (Psalms 37:23).

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the LORD. 'They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for Me wholeheartedly, you will find Me. I will be found by you,' says the LORD" (Jeremiah 29:11-14).

Love,
Jessie

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