God's Calling & Dating Boundaries: A Road Less Taken

Hanaya can’t shake off her aunt’s comments about Hiroto (from the previous clip). While the two hang out in the school common room, she finally gathers the courage to ask what’s been weighing on her heart: “Are you following Jesus because you truly want to—or because you like me?”

Caught off guard and afraid that she might stop talking to him, Hiroto plays it safe. What follows is an honest, heart-searching conversation about relationships, calling, and eternity. Hanaya shares her passion for cross-cultural missions after high school, her personal boundaries around purity, and her desire to live a life that truly matters.

Hiroto begins to realize that pursuing her might come with deeper challenges—and deeper meaning—than he expected. He feels like time is slipping away. As Hanaya drifts off into a short nap, Hiroto watches her quietly, his heart stirred. In that still moment, he whispers a prayer to Jesus, unsure of the future but desperate to be real.

Whether you're a Christian teen, a parent, a mentor, or just someone seeking truth—you’ll find something here to stir your heart, challenge your thinking, and remind you what really matters. Perhaps God may prompt you to think outside the box of a conventional life.

Only one life, the still small voice
Gently pleads for a better choice
Bidding me selfish aims to leave
And to God’s Holy will to cleave
Only one life, a few brief years
Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears
Each with its days I must fulfil
Living for self or in His will
Give me Father, a purpose deep
Let me say, Thy will be done
And when at last I’ll hear the call
I know I’ll say it was worth it all
Only one life, it will soon be past
Only what’s done for Christ will last
— C.T. Studd

Hanaya Oki Series:  https://superdifferent.com/hanaya 

Transcript

Hanaya 0:01

Do you have a crush on someone?

Hiroto 0:02

Why? Are there any rumors going around?

Hanaya 0:04

No, the thing is, that my aunt thinks you might be talking to me a lot because you like me. I told her that's not the case, but I hope I'm getting it right. So just be real with me, okay? You're interested in following Jesus because you actually want to not just because you like me, right?

Hiroto 0:19

Relax, Hanaya! I already like someone else.

Hanaya 0:21

Oh, okay. Is she in our school?

Hiroto 0:23

Yeah, but I can't tell you who she is. I'm not even sure if she is interested in me at all.

Hanaya 0:27

Hey, no pressure. I was just a little curious,

Hiroto 0:30

But maybe you could give me your thoughts on what should I do? Do you think I should just go for it and tell her how I feel? Or is it too soon?

Hanaya 0:37

Hehe, I'm no relationship expert.

Hiroto 0:39

But still, how would you react if someone told you they liked you?

Hanaya 0:43

Hmm , I haven't really thought about it that much. It kind of depends. If I don't have any feelings for the person, I would just politely say no. I'd probably go with something like, "Thanks for liking me, but I don't feel the same way. Please don't be sad. There are tons of good girls out there in the world. You're just fishing in a small pond."

Hiroto 1:02

Hehe, right! We guys can be pretty impulsive. Sometimes we might end up making a girl uncomfortable because we're just focused on how we feel. For me, when I like someone, I'm thinking for life. I'm not about playing games. That's why I want to take my time to really get to know her and see how things go. If I'm pretty sure, say like 90%, that she might like me too, then I'll open up. But if I'm not getting any hints that she's into me, I won't say anything and just move on.

Hanaya 1:29

Wow, Hiroto! That's really sweet of you to think that way. It's the right thing to do. But please, if you're into Jesus fall for someone who loves Jesus.

Hiroto 1:39

Someone like you?

Hanaya 1:41

Uh, well , ahhh ...

Hiroto 1:42

I mean, I get what you're saying.

Hanaya 1:44

But it doesn't have to be someone like me, you know.

Hiroto 1:46

I'm confused. Can you explain why not?

Hanaya 1:48

What I'm getting at is that, yes, be with someone who is white-hot for Jesus and will also be by your side. I'm a missions kind of girl. I don't think I'm anything special. It's just that Jesus has a unique path for me, a road that not many choose to take. It could be tough for someone to follow me on this journey. They might have to give up quite a bit in the process.

Hiroto 2:10

Uh , okay. Where do you plan to go?

Hanaya 2:12

I'm mostly leaning towards Mongolia, but I'm also considering Vietnam. I haven't made a final decision yet.

Hiroto 2:17

Do you want to go because you actually want to or because you feel like God is pushing you to go?

Hanaya 2:22

God never forces us to do anything we don't want to. When we feel drawn to a certain place or group of people, it might be God working in our hearts and nudging us to go there. Many have never heard the Gospel, about Jesus and the one true living God. They don't know that He created everything, including them, that their lives have a purpose, that there is an eternity beyond this life, and that He values and loves them immensely.

Hiroto 2:50

Isn't it a bit early to be going on missions? Are you really okay being on your own out there in a foreign country?

Hanaya 2:55

It might be tough at first, but I think I'll be alright. If we wait for the ideal moment, whether personally, relationally, economically, or globally, we may miss out on opportunities to move forward. When you really know God and see how valuable He is, you want to help others see Him and love Him that way. You can do this by talking about Him or demonstrating His glory through signs and wonders or by just living in a certain way so that people will be curious to know about Him. This will bring much hope into their lives. But if we don't go and reach out, how will they ever know?

Hiroto 3:30

When I look at the world and people's misplaced priorities, it makes me think how many will actually pay attention. There are so many problems that need fixing, and honestly, any mission work feels like an overwhelming challenge.

Hanaya 3:43

Well, in the words of Gandalf, the white, "It is not our part to master all the tides of the world, but to do what is in us for the succor of those years wherein we are set uprooting the evil in the fields that we know so that those who live after may have clean earth to till". It might feel like a lot of people aren't open to the Gospel, but God knows those who would believe. Even if it's just one person out of 99, it's worth going. Heaven celebrates every single person who repents. I wanna say and do things that hopefully will have a timeless value long after I'm gone. I might plant the seeds now, but it could take two, five, or even ten years for them to blossom and grow. You might be wondering if all the sacrifices and struggles are worth it. The Bible says that our struggles now are just a momentary light affliction when we see from the perspective of eternity. I'm not living for what I can gain in this life now; my focus is on eternity, not the temporary.

Hiroto 4:43

Do people truly contemplate eternity? I wonder about the storyline playing in most people's minds. What kind of narrative do they believe and live by?

Hanaya 4:50

People have to look somewhere to ground themselves. We've all got to put our faith in something because we don't know everything. At some point, we have to take that leap of faith. So there's no getting away from the story. Everyone has one. The question is, what is the right story? It's really sad to see so many people just going through the motions, living for nothing. They just keep consuming endless amusements. Their hearts have yet to grasp the reality of eternity. They either don't believe it or they just haven't been informed about the story of eternity and our accountability to God. Because of that, they end up in a crisis of meaning. The antidote to the crisis of meaning is to live with a sense of urgency and responsibility, keeping eternity in mind. Death makes things real. It's wise to think of death, not in a morbid way, but in a reflective way. Imagine something happens to you today that you never could have seen coming and you die. What will happen to you after you die? Death will come to all of us. What really counts is how we use our time here to get ready for what lasts forever. The choices we make might not seem like a big deal to others right now , but they will matter in the end. We should be more about honoring and pleasing Jesus than having approval crumbs from the culture around us. A lot of people go after fame here on earth, but we should care more about making it into God's history rather than man's. God's book of life is the only history that will ultimately exist. I think some of the best known people on earth will be the least known in heaven and some of the least known on earth will be the best known in heaven. You can do some incredible things to make headlines and still not live your life well. On the flip side, those who may never grab the spotlight but live faithfully every day, tackling even the smallest tasks as if they're doing them for God and growing in their love for Him and for others, I think will be very well known in Heaven.

Hiroto 6:53

Yeah, that's true. Many would be surprised to know they were acknowledged in heaven. So what are you planning to do wherever you're headed?

Hanaya 7:01

I'm considering enrolling in a college there, but only if the classes are in English. In terms of my future career, I am contemplating two options; either teaching at a school or university or starting a small business and hiring a couple of local young people to help run it. If the business does well, I can expand it further. This approach would allow me to make a practical impact on people's lives while also sharing the Gospel and a biblical worldview with them. My mom has saved up some money to support me, and I think it should cover my college expenses as well as some initial funding, if I plan to start a business. I'll also look for a part-time job while I'm in college. I also want to do something for low income families, young single moms and vulnerable girls. I've been learning a bit of Mongolian, and I'm thinking about giving Vietnamese a shot too.

Hiroto 7:53

Wow! You're so focused, Hanaya! I don't want to live a shallow life. I don't want to be all noise and no substance. I don't want my life to slip away to where when I'm 40 and I look back and mourn the countless hours I wasted on pointless stuff. So I wonder what's my contribution going to be? What is my cause? I think I can confuse the devil because I never know where I'm going.

Hanaya 8:16

Hehe, you know the passion for your purpose often arises from the things that bother you the most. All true passion is born out of anguish. Compassion will make you think about others. It will make you want to do something, to find a solution. It will make you think outside the box of a regular normal life. Actually your personality, the things that you love, the things that you're good at, they're not a coincidence. There's a plan and purpose for your life, and God has put specific things in you that he wants to share with the world for His glory. The influence you have isn't random. It's intentional. God doesn't do things by accident. God can use your work and occupation to shape you, developing and sharpening your skills, talents, and awareness in order to translate it into what he's ultimately going to do with you in another area. You have no idea how many people who are talented and ambitious take off like a little jet and move around the process God has for them. And then they crash and God has to put them in the process later.

Hiroto 9:20

Hmm , that's a good insight. So going back to my earlier question, how would you respond if you actually like the person who told you they have feelings for you?

Hanaya 9:29

Ahh , I'll ask him for a little time to think things over. I will pray and check in with the Lord about it. It's super important that he loves Jesus since that's a crucial part of what I value. If I feel like he is the one, I will ask him if he can wait a few years, as I've got some plans I wanna work on. Additionally, he will need to meet my mom and ask for her permission to court me. We will also establish some boundaries until marriage, such as no kissing, no holding hands, and meeting only in public places.

Hiroto 10:00

Whoa, Hanaya! You're always thinking so far ahead. Not even holding hands? Aren't you being a little too cautious?

Hanaya 10:06

Hehehe, holding hands might be okay . Most people don't think far ahead. They just live in the moment and then one thing often leads to another and they mess up. However, some have managed to stick to these boundaries. It's totally doable.

Hiroto 10:20

What motivates you to go to such lengths?

Hanaya 10:22

Okay, so typically we hear testimonies from people who messed up in their younger days, but found forgiveness, healing, and a fresh start with God. Although some may have to face the consequences of their actions, Jesus' sacrifice and His blood cleanses and makes them pure when they truly repent. This gives great hope and peace to those who have stumbled. But here is the thing, their mistakes can serve as wisdom for us. By being aware of potential temptations, we can set up safeguards. It's definitely worth it. I want to be responsible to myself right now and my future self across time. Think about it–we only get to be young once. This is our one chance to glorify God hile we're in our prime. We can never be 17 again. We have one opportunity to stay pure and shining in a world full of selfishness and darkness. We have one opportunity to be a Godly role model at the ages of 16, 17, or 18. What if we really nailed it and could share our experiences with others, maybe even our future kids, about how we glorified God with our choices? The next generation needs to hear more stories like these. We can inspire them to follow in our footsteps. While some may label us as overly religious, we are pursuing this because we are chasing the honor and reward that come from God.

Hiroto 11:40

Wow! That really makes sense. We hardly have people in our lives challenging us to think like this.

Hanaya 11:45

I think it's because they underestimate us. They don't really take us seriously because of our age. So they hold back on saying the hard stuff, thinking we can't handle it. But that's actually what we need–a cause that's much larger than just ourselves. At some point, my mom started treating me like a mature adult. She would say tough things to me. She played many sermons and teachings around the house for me to listen to. She would play them really loud. I couldn't escape it, hehe, But you know, as I listened, I would get hooked on the message. She did her part in nurturing and training me because she understood something of God's intent for my life. Sometimes she would lay her hands on my head and pray while I slept. She still does it.

Hiroto 12:27

I wish I had someone like that.

Hanaya 12:29

Well, you could do it with your children yet to be. In the Bible, Paul mentioned to Timothy that from childhood you have known the holy scriptures. Timothy's mom and grandma played a vital role in Timothy's godly upbringing. Also, we read thats Samson's parents sought guidance from God regarding how to raise their future child. They inquired about both the child's manner of life and his mission. They realized that carrying out God's plan isn't just about what God says, but also about how parents can actively support and prepare their children in a way that aligns with God's intentions. How many parents actually take the time to connect with God to figure out their child's calling? It might be hard to see at first, but over time they can gain clarity. They can create an environment that fosters an intimate relationship with God, helps maximize their child's God-given talents and encourages them to follow their God-given path.

Hiroto 13:25

I guess it's not too late for me since I'm learning from you. By the way, I have noticed that many Christian YouTubers and pastors discuss various things, but very few encourage cross-cultural missions. Why is there so little interest?

Hanaya 13:39

I think many people tend to stick with what feels safe and comfortable. They often avoid risks and prefer a predictable regular life, focusing on short-term gains instead of thinking long-term . Sometimes parents can unintentionally hinder this process due to their own fears or expectations, rather than helping their children discern God's will. Plus, funding for mission work is quite low as many churches do not prioritize cross-cultural missions. Learning a new language requires a great deal of patience, and there are probably many other things to think about too. Perhaps people need to start planning early, including their finances. Visiting some of these countries multiple times may help them better understand their feelings about making such a commitment. Most importantly, their decision should be guided by God. Also, I think most don't want to live to be forgotten. They desire to be recognized by others. There's little glamor or fame in being a missionary to unreached people groups. Missionaries typically go about their work quietly fulfilling their assignments without advertising and seeking attention. Personally, my joy is seeing people falling in love with Jesus. I am okay with fading away. I might end up forgotten and unknown to many, and that's totally fine.

Hiroto 14:56

I'll never forget you, Hanaya.

Hanaya 14:57

You better not! I've put a lot into you! Just kidding, it's fine if you do. Life happens. But remember my words. Aah , I feel a bit tired and sleepy, so I'm going to take a quick nap. Can you wake me up in a few minutes?

Hiroto 15:10

Sure, no problem. We still have , uh, another 15 minutes before the math class, so yeah, rest a while . Jesus, I'm still getting to know You. I admit my reasons for seeking You might not be all that pure, but I believe what You have done for me. I need You. I know I can't hide anything from You. You understand all my thoughts and what's in my heart. I've never met anyone like Hanaya. I can't help but fall in love with her. She inspires me to want to live for something bigger than just myself, to live for Your purposes, for Your glory. I want my life to count in light of eternity. You know my feelings for her are true and pure. I want to be wherever she is. I won't interfere with what You have planned for her. But it seems to be getting harder for me to open up. I really don't know how she feels about me. I don't want to make her uncomfortable. What if she stops talking to me? I don't wanna lose her. She gives me a lot of her time, but I don't know if that that's a hint. This is not enough and time is fading away. I don't know how things will unfold, but please help me know the right time to share my feelings. I trust that You will make a way. If not, I will still follow You.