This familiar quote speaks to this truth from the book of Jeremiah in chapter 29 and verse 11 - "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." To each of us that purpose is unique but engaging in the discovery process is of equal importance no matter who you are. In fact, as a redeemed people it is our responsibility to seek to know.
But if there is one thing I am sure of it's that whatever that process may be ... it is definitely worth it!
Truly the best part is that somewhere in that discovery process there is a stumbling upon of the big picture. That thing that moves you to action. And no matter what your purpose may be it boils down to this, a simple invitation to serve. To serve not out of guilt but out of passion to make a difference. To bring Jesus into reality in peoples lives. And the purposes in each of us through which Jesus makes Himself real are as vast, creative and unique as the stars in the sky!
Essentially the simple definition of the word 'calling' means, an invitation to service. Each of us have an opportunity, some would even say an obligation, to cultivate whatever abilities and talents God has given us in order to fulfill that purpose to its highest and fullest!
"Whatever your purpose may be, it boils down to a simple invitation to service."
Think of it like building a structure: First you make sure that you're working on a solid foundation. Secondly, you need to have your materials for building ready and the tools it will take to put those materials together. Consider for a moment the life of Nehemiah and how he went about his own discovery process to fulfilling his purpose which happened to be rebuilding the wall and the gates of Jerusalem.
Nehemiah's profession at the time was as the royal cup-bearer for King Artaxerxes. In Nehemiah chapter 1 we read that while doing his job, seemingly getting by just fine, Nehemiah is informed that his people in Judah are in trouble and that the walls of Jerusalem have been torn down and the gates burned. Immediately Nehemiah's heart is heavy and deeply troubled. Verse 4 says that as soon as he heard the news that he "sat down and wept.”
A good indicator as to what your purpose is and in what way you are called to serve is to ask yourself the question, "What am I moved by?"... "What do I have compassion for?" You see whatever it is you feel compelled to do something about is typically a sign as to what you are called to.Nehemiah wept over what he had heard. He was deeply moved for his city, his people and their legacy. He could have jumped into action quickly but choosing wisely, his first move was to go and seek God. He went to God to get His strategy for how he was to go about making a difference.
As believers we have been given access to God’s wisdom. Only His wisdom holds the answers to society's problems and we are called to bring it into reality. To be salt and light in the earth. To bring real answers to real problems. We are called to restore.
When we choose to set ourselves apart and inquire of the Lord in prayer we are setting ourselves up for success. This should be normal protocol for how we live and is the most important aspect of moving forward in any area of life. Especially in the pursuit of fulfilling ones purpose!
So when you are facing a decision, even when you feel that you have a good idea of how to move forward, settle yourself before God and get His plan and His strategy for your success.
It may just be direction for one step, but more direction will come as you obey.
This is part one of a series so be sure to check back in the coming weeks.
I call you blessed.
Jen ~
visit my website at jentringale.com/
This is a great help! Thank you!
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear it Susan! :)
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