A Woman of Purpose

A Woman of Purpose

Revelation 12: ¹³ When the dragon realized that he had been thrown down to the earth, he began to pursue the woman who had given birth to the boy. ¹⁴ She was given the two wings of a large eagle in order to fly to her place in the desert, where she will be taken care of for three and a half years, safe from the dragon's attack. ¹⁵ And then from his mouth the dragon poured out a flood of water after the woman, so that it would carry her away. ¹⁶ But the earth helped the woman; it opened its mouth and swallowed the water that had come from the dragon's mouth. ¹⁷ The dragon was furious with the woman and went off to fight against the rest of her descendants, all those who obey God's commandments and are faithful to the truth revealed by Jesus. ¹⁸ And the dragon stood on the seashore.

 

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“You shouldn’t go for it” was the bad advice I almost listened to. A person, who I thought was in my corner, was trying to convince me to not take a promotion because it was “uncertain.” But I took the position anyway. Later I found out that he wanted the position.

 

• I was being deceived.
• I was being pursued by someone who did not have my best interest in mind.
• I was being protected.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, continued the vision he was given about Satan being thrown out of heaven to earth. He calls him “the dragon”  who displayed great powers. Since the birth of JESUS could not be stopped, the dragon tried to harm “the woman” or GOD’s people who obey HIS commands and are faithful to the truth revealed by JESUS.

 

My Observations:

• GOD gives us purpose of spreading HIS message of love.
• GOD knows the obstructions we will face because of Satan’s fury.
• GOD gives us wings and tells the earth to swallow up the attacks of the enemy in order to protect us.

 

Protection is required when we profess JESUS as the Savior. I mean, I used to think life would be easier if I accepted JESUS as my Savior, but it got worse! Attack after attack, I wondered if GOD was listening or if HE had the power HE said HE had. Fortunately for me, GOD is gracious.

 

HE sees to attack of Satan from way off and provides you and me with the right thing at the right time. HE gives us “wings” when we need to fly and summons the earth to absorb the enemy’s attack. I am glad to be part of HIS bride as I continue in my faith.

 

Challenge

• What protection does the writer mention?
• Have you ever been attacked and did not know how to respond?
• Will you seek GOD’s protection by believing in JESUS and know that HE has given you purpose, so HE will protect you today?

Legacy of Purpose

Legacy of Purpose

2 Peter 1: ¹² And so I will always remind you of these matters, even though you already know them and are firmly grounded in the truth you have received. ¹³ I think it only right for me to stir up your memory of these matters as long as I am still alive. ¹⁴ I know that I shall soon put off this mortal body, as our Lord Jesus Christ plainly told me. ¹⁵ I will do my best, then, to provide a way for you to remember these matters at all times after my death.

 

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“What would you do differently if you knew you were going to die in the next two weeks?” was the poignant question posed to us at the Promise Keeper’s conference. I really hadn’t thought of that, but after pondering I realized I would love more, spread the Gospel more and praise more. The next statement was the game changer. “Then why don’t you start doing this right now.”

 

• I wanted conditions to be perfect for me to do what I should have been doing all along.
• I felt bad that I could not blame anyone but myself for not doing the things I should have been doing.
• I realized then, that I need to make a change in my life that would actively include GOD’s love spread to my family, friends and strangers.

 

Peter got some startling news directly from JESUS. After leaving the ministry, Peter went back to fishing. JESUS appeared to the disciples in a miraculous encounter. HE told Peter about his death after reinstating him in the ministry. Peter, from then on, spoke boldly about JESUS.

 

My Observations:

• People are important, BUT GOD is most important.
• Being busy doing life is okay, but following GOD is the ultimate.
• Working hard to stay alive and healthy is not bad, but showing people the way to believe in GOD is the pinnacle of existence.

 

Selfish people redefine what is important. I mean, when people ask the question “What would you like to be known by?” they may answer by saying “Money” or “Fame” or “Acquiescing to selfish needs of greedy people.” They may not come out directly and say those things, but it may be at the heart of the matter. GOD wants something different.

 

Each and every day, GOD wants HIS people to remember JESUS. HIS death and resurrection is the most important event that ever happened to mankind. All GOD wants us to do is to love one another so people would turn their eyes to HIM. I gladly leave a legacy of spreading JESUS as the most important gift I could give my family, friends and strangers.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is the writer’s definition of being “firmly grounded in the truth?”
• Have you examined your life’s purpose to see if it includes what GOD wants you to do?
• Will you live your life with GOD’s purpose from this day forth so you can be used to being many people to HIM from now on?

 

Purpose Given

Purpose Given

1 Timothy 2: ³ This is good and it pleases God our Savior, ⁴ who wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth. ⁵ For there is one God, and there is one who brings God and human beings together, the man Christ Jesus, ⁶ who gave himself to redeem the whole human race. That was the proof at the right time that God wants everyone to be saved, ⁷ and that is why I was sent as an apostle and teacher of the Gentiles, to proclaim the message of faith and truth. I am not lying; I am telling the truth!

 

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“Please take notes” were the words asked of me that I was insulted by. I had been invited to a meeting with the highest executives in the company and they only wanted me to take notes!? But after doing it for a while, I realized, I was learning about concerns that I never would have.

 

• I admit, I did not like my purpose.
• I wanted to “be” something other than someone else’s lacky.
• I almost missed something huge by not wanting to start out small and learn.

 

Paul explained purpose. Not just his, but all humans. He explained that GOD “wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth.” JESUS took this purpose seriously and took on the sins of mankind to redeem the whole human race. He then proclaims that he too wants this as his purpose.

 

My Observations

• Without understanding GOD’s desire, I cannot “be” what HE made me for.
• I have to love what GOD loves in order to see the purpose HE made me for.
• GOD’s purpose for me may be simpler than I would like it to be, but I may be missing a lesson that would grow me.

 

Wanting to “be” something else can get in the way of my purpose. I mean, wanting to be a celebrity, or have a different shape or to not be what I am can cause me to miss out on the purpose I have been given right here and now.

 

I may be given the opportunity to reach the person in front of me with the greatest message one could ever hear, namely JESUS died for you and me and is alive! Instead, I may grouse about my business or job or family state. GOD forgives me and fills me up to see HIS purpose and wants me to be thankful for being chosen to go out and seek HIS Kingdom.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is “good and pleasing” to the LORD as the writer puts it?
• Have you ever wanted to take classes or read books on how to be a better you?
• Be honest, do you like you?
• Will you see yourself as GOD sees you and accept your purpose which is to save the lost today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, thank you for giving this reader purpose. Help him or her accept YOUR purpose so abundant life can be given. amen

You ARE Special

You ARE Special

2 Thessalonians 1: ¹³ But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, ¹⁴ to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁵ Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.

 

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Feeling lonely, I sought out people who would be “friendly.” When I found a group, I was always welcome, but something was missing. Each group seemed similar, promoting “unity” and “service” But was there more.

 

• I felt there had to be more than being in a group.
• In some groups, I felt lonelier because something was missing.
• I noticed some people made the “group” their purpose in life, but there had to be more.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy express their gratitude for those who believe in JESUS as the Savior. They explain how GOD has called people for a purpose and set them apart for HIS own. They also urge the people to stay special by learning about JESUS.

 

My Observations

• Thankfulness for others stretches beyond any group I can get into.
• GOD chose me for salvation and set me apart by the SPIRIT and belief in the truth.
• Glory of our LORD JESUS CHRIST is given to me because GOD chose me.

 

GOD chose you and that is what makes you special. I mean, groups can make me feel special for a moment, but something will always be missing, namely GOD. I know I have to remain on this earth and live in the world, so GOD doesn’t mind me socializing. But that is not my purpose.

 

From the time I was born until the time JESUS returns, GOD gives me purpose. HE will examine every word and deed to see if HE is involved. All the things I thought were “special” may not be to HIM. HE will reward me for the things I truly did in HIS name. I am grateful GOD holds onto me even when I let go of HIM.

 

Challenge

• What is the calling the writers are speaking about?
• Have you ever been part of a group yet felt a higher calling?
• Will you fulfill your purpose by letting go of the world’s solutions and focus on what GOD has called you to do today?

Working It Out

Working It Out

Philippians 2: ¹² So then, dear friends, as you always obeyed me when I was with you, it is even more important that you obey me now while I am away from you. Keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation, ¹³ because God is always at work in you to make you willing and able to obey his own purpose.

 

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Being stopped by a local thug was always a scary encounter. This particular day was no different. One thug stopped me and asked me questions. I wondered what that was all about, but went along with it because I felt I had no other choice.

 

I noticed other thugs snickering. When the encounter was over, someone said, “They were working together to pick your pockets.” They had gone through my coat without my knowledge.

 

• I was distracted by questions.
• I was deceived by something that scared me.
• I was detoured from my destination because I was not looking at where I was going.

 

Paul provides a warning to “keep on working with fear and trembling to complete your salvation.” He knew there would be many false teachers, greedy people and thieves who wanted followers versus genuine followers of the Living CHRIST. He tells everyone who believes that “GOD is always at work in you.”

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to keep praying to not be deceived.
• GOD wants me to fear falling for false teaching, false preaching and false movements that could distract me from HIS will.
• GOD wants me to know HE has a purpose for me that the deceiver wants to stop at all costs.

 

Purpose is a gift from GOD. I mean, HE gave me a purpose to point people to the Most High GOD, through belief in JESUS. You would think this would be easy, but the deceiver has made it difficult. Through worldly tactics, the enemy fools people into trying to make GOD into “their” image.

 

False teaching confuses people, false images deceive people and false information worry people. BUT GOD took care of all of that too. HE makes believers “willing and able to obey HIS purpose” to prevent being deterred. I gladly work out my relationship with GOD by fearing being deceived and by pursuing HIS will.

 

Challenge

• What obedience do you think the writer is describing?
• How is GOD working in you?
• Will you continue to pursue the truth about GOD by seeking HIM through HIS Word and by serving HIM through loving others today?

Controlled Life

Controlled Life

Ephesians 5: Since you are God's dear children, you must try to be like him. ² Your life must be controlled by love, just as Christ loved us and gave his life for us as a sweet-smelling offering and sacrifice that pleases God.

 

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Finally deciding to graduate, I focused on studying. I disappeared from having “fun” and focused on what I was supposed to do. It worked! I applied this focus on pursuing lustful items such as power, sex, and money. Each took time and controlled my life in its pursuit.

 

• I could not stop until I got what I wanted.
• I lost sleep over fruitless pursuits.
• I was controlled by the pleasures of life rather than something more solid.

 

Being adopted into a family means acting like the family. This overall behavior was the plea of Paul to everyone who believed in GOD. Since we cannot be GOD we can try to be like HIM on some level. The one way to be like GOD is to love like HIM.

 

My Observations

• GOD’s definition of “love” is far greater than anything I can imagine.
• JESUS provided me with the ultimate example of “love.”
• “Love” is an eternal pursuit that GOD wants for me.

 

Getting my way is not love. I mean, GOD says no to many of my requests, especially when they are harmful to others or myself. When I don’t get “my” way, I pout and question GOD’s “love.” HE forgives my childish tantrums and opens my eyes to the sacrifice JESUS made.

 

Humans were created out of love, for love by love. GOD is pure love and cannot be tainted. JESUS controlled HIS life out of love. HE never wavered from HIS purpose. I am glad JESUS forgives me daily and I ask for the tiniest bit of HIS love to control my life.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer appeal to everyone?
• Have you ever had something control your life like work or an addiction or loneliness?
• Will you let go of the things that easily control you and allow GOD to fill empty spaces in your heart with overflowing love for yourself and others today?

True Identity

True Identity

Ephesians 3: ¹⁴ For this reason I fall on my knees before the Father, ¹⁵ from whom every family in heaven and on earth receives its true name. 

 

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As I was walking down the hall someone shouted a negative label at me. My youthful response was to get a large friend and threaten a fight. The label was not who I was so it enraged me.

 

• I reacted to a false label.
• I wasted time and energy over something that was not true.
• I was not ready to take the high road so I stooped down to fight.

 

Paul uncovers something interesting. He says each person has a “true name” which implies the family name I have is false. HE was revealed that GOD provides purpose through a name.

 

My Observations

• My true identity will be revealed to me when I am with the FATHER.
• I will one day understand my true purpose in union with CHRIST.
• Knowing I have a true name gives me hope.

 

People want to be GOD so we label each other in ways to make others feel inferior. BUT GOD is supreme and is the only one who holds the true label of HIS creation. HE made each person carefully and with a special purpose. Unfortunately, there is an adversary who lies and confuses people to seek a worldly identity.

 

People are separated and lied to so JESUS becomes a problem rather than the only solution. Political thieves try to hijack the name of JESUS but fail miserably because GOD knows HIS true flock. I am glad GOD holds my identity and has adopted me into HIS glorious family.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer appeal to identity when entering into prayer?
• Have you ever been called a false label or possibly mislabeled yourself?
• Will you stop seeking validation from the world and know you are loved fully by GOD who holds your true purpose and identity in CHRIST who is our Savior today?

New Clothes

New Clothes

Galatians 3: ²⁶ It is through faith that all of you are God's children in union with Christ Jesus. ²⁷ You were baptized into union with Christ, and now you are clothed, so to speak, with the life of Christ himself. ²⁸ So there is no difference between Jews and Gentiles, between slaves and free people, between men and women; you are all one in union with Christ Jesus. ²⁹ If you belong to Christ, then you are the descendants of Abraham and will receive what God has promised.

 

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Tattered clothes made me feel ashamed  to be in public. Ridicule from other children made me self-conscious about my garments and I began to second guess my abilities. “What do I have to offer if I don’t fit in?” I thought from my insecurities.

 

• I was insecure.
• I was self-conscious about my outward appearance.
• I was busy looking on the outside of me and I did not like what I saw.

 

Paul concludes his explanation of the temporary use of “The Law.” He mentions that “It is through faith” that we are GOD’s children. Baptism by the HOLY SPIRIT brought all who believed in JESUS as the Savior, into union with CHRIST. Now the promise of being a descendant of Abraham is available to those who believe.

 

My Observations

• I can be secure in this life when I put my trust in JESUS.
• Sin soiled and tore my godly clothes.
• GOD gave me new clothes that are not made with human hands, rather of the SPIRIT.

 

Being adopted into the family of GOD has its benefits. I mean, now I am in union with CHRIST and I can be confident that the Creator wants me to have everything in HIS kingdom. Unfortunately my insecurities blind me to focus on the world and I overlook GOD’s kingdom.

 

I fall into the trap of trying to wear clothes made from humans and I adorn myself in businesses, jobs, titles, political affiliations, social groups and social pressures. These clothes get old quickly, BUT GOD’s clothes never stain or tear. I gladly wear the life of JESUS as a garment I am not ashamed to wear.

 

Challenge

• What does the passage say about equality?
• How does this passage address insecurity?
• Will you accept the security of GOD for this life and the next by believing in JESUS as your Savior so you can put on HIS new clothes of purpose and freedom today?

Given a Task

 

Given a Task

Galatians 2: ⁶ But those who seemed to be the leaders—I say this because it makes no difference to me what they were; God does not judge by outward appearances—those leaders, I say, made no new suggestions to me. ⁷ On the contrary, they saw that God had given me the task of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles, just as he had given Peter the task of preaching the gospel to the Jews. 

 

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When my parents said “clean up this” or “clean up that” it felt like drudgery, but I would do it. But when the teacher was passing out “tasks” she overlooked my raised hand and picked someone behind me. “What about me?” I asked. She said “Okay, you can clean up the book area.”

 

• I was delighted to be chosen!
• I was excited to be part of something.
• I was willing to do what it took when I was given a task to do.

 

Outward appearances were not what Paul was going for. He had run into phony people who spoke about GOD on the surface, but were seeking fame and praise. Those who were truly following JESUS saw Paul’s actions from his heart. He was given a task by GOD to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles.

 

My Observations

• GOD looks at my heart actions versus surface actions.
• GOD knows when I am being sincere versus self-serving.
• GOD gives me tasks because HE wants me to succeed in growing HIS kingdom.

 

Getting tasks from GOD happens daily. I mean, HE wants me to pray for those around me and hope that all I encounter in a given day, accept JESUS as the Savior. The task HE gives to us is usually not small,

 

HE wants all to be saved. Unfortunately there are times when I get distracted by the days worries or a season or even a specific day. GOD loved me so much that HE gave me HIS one and only SON so I could believe in HIM and be saved. I am glad I can look beyond the day and see HIS eternal love.

 

Challenge

• What task is the writer given?
• Why is his task different than Peter’s?
• What task do you believe GOD is giving you?

 

Dear LORD, please give the reader a clear task for today. Let him or her know YOUR love. amen

Chosen by Choice

Chosen by Choice

2 Corinthians 2: ²¹ It is God himself who makes us, together with you, sure of our life in union with Christ; it is God himself who has set us apart, ²² who has placed his mark of ownership upon us, and who has given us the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the guarantee of all that he has in store for us.

 

²³ I call God as my witness—he knows my heart! It was in order to spare you that I decided not to go to Corinth. ²⁴ We are not trying to dictate to you what you must believe; we know that you stand firm in the faith. Instead, we are working with you for your own happiness.

 

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Standing in a line, I awaited being called. I was clumsy and not athletically capable. But somehow I was chosen early. Was this the start of my athletic career? No! But it felt good to be chosen.

 

• I dreaded the thought of not being chosen.
• I did not like being embarrassed.
• I feared not being chosen but I also feared being chosen and not living up to why I was chosen.

 

Paul gives everyone a word of relief. “It is GOD” who did everything to save mankind. He explains that unity, assurance and a guarantee of eternal salvation all come from GOD. We were chosen.by HIS choice.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to accept the gift of unity HE has given me through CHRIST.
• GOD wants me to stand firm in the faith, knowing HE has placed HIS mark of ownership on me.
• GOD wants me to act like I have been set apart by seeking to work for others.

 

Being chosen is more than being saved from eternal pain and misery. I mean, I am chosen for a purpose that is far greater than I could ever dream. GOD uses my sins as examples to others that it is possible for anyone to be saved. It does not matter about the skill or knowledge.

 

GOD saw my entire life, with all my sins and failures, and decided to die for me anyway. This is great news! I am glad HE chose me when I would not choose HIM.

 

Challenge

• Do you notice the love of GOD that the writer is trying to express?
• Why would GOD go through so much trouble if HE wanted you to fail?
• What words of assurance do you see?
• Will you provide these words of assurance to someone today? 

Dare to Be Abnormal

 Dare to Be Abnormal

1 Corinthians 6: ¹⁸ Avoid immorality. Any other sin a man commits does not affect his body; but the man who is guilty of sexual immorality sins against his own body. ¹⁹ Don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and who was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourselves but to God; ²⁰ he bought you for a price. So use your bodies for God's glory.

 

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Trying to follow the “rules” became harder and harder when others were bending them or had abandoned them all together. Sex and how it is supposed to be performed is one of those rules that raises debates all the way up to law makers. I had decided not to look at porn or have sex outside of marriage. This also meant removing sexual TV shows. People thought I was acting extreme. I sat in my apartment, alone.

 

• When I gave into what “everyone else” was doing, I seemed to fit in.
• When I stopped doing what “everyone else” was doing, I was looked at like I was strange.
• When I told people I wanted to follow GOD’s rules I was treated like something was wrong with me.

 

Paul tried to change how we value sex. He attempted to raise it from being cheap and tawdry to its proper use. He doesn’t explain sex, rather the sin. He tried to educate everyone that the HOLY SPIRIT lives inside us, so we are supposed to care and feed HIM with the things HE desires.

 

• GOD wants me to avoid immorality.
• GOD wants me to know that my body is the temple of the HOLY SPIRIT.
• GOD wants me to use my body for HIS glory.

 

When I invite something into my mind, I affect the HOLY SPIRIT positively or negatively. I mean, when I lust, I am the one waging war against the HOLY SPIRIT who wants me to love instead. GOD wants me to surrender the war. But society may scoff at this.

 

So what is the answer to the scoff. Avoiding immorality these days will make me unpopular and seemingly weird. I am grateful GOD has forgiven me for my sexual sins and appreciates when I follow HIS rules.

 

• Are you fighting GOD with your views on sex?
• Do you think you can do things your way and remain pleasing to HIM?
• Will you reduce your habits, little by little, knowing each time you do, GOD is pleased with you?
• Will you also focus your mind on serving GOD and feeding the HOLY SPIRIT, who lives inside you, today?

What is the Real Motivation?

 

What is the Real Motivation?

Romans 15: ¹⁴ My friends: I myself feel sure that you are full of goodness, that you have all knowledge, and that you are able to teach one another. ¹⁵ But in this letter I have been quite bold about certain subjects of which I have reminded you. I have been bold because of the privilege God has given me ¹⁶ of being a servant of Christ Jesus to work for the Gentiles. I serve like a priest in preaching the Good News from God, in order that the Gentiles may be an offering acceptable to God, dedicated to him by the Holy Spirit. ¹⁷ In union with Christ Jesus, then, I can be proud of my service for God. 

 

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Each day seemed to bring on a new trouble. It was a rough time and “everything” was going wrong. I had not focused on GOD very much, so I turned to HIM as a last resort. “Maybe if I am good, then I can get out of the trouble I’m in” I thought to myself.

 

I stopped doing a few sins I blatantly knew I was doing in hopes that the trial would end sooner. When the trial was over. I went back to the same sins.

 

There have been times when I tried to act righteous to get my way.

There have been times when I tried to use manipulation on GOD to get my way.

There have been times when I tried to be “good” temporarily so I could get my way.

 

Paul expresses his surety in the capabilities of those he wrote the letter. He also mentions his reason for writing. Paul wanted “everyone” to be accepted by JESUS, not just those he was familiar with. He would not be proud of himself until the Gentiles believed in JESUS.

 

GOD wants me to have a true purpose.

GOD wants my purpose to be permanent.

GOD wants JESUS to be known as the Savior and HE wants me to have this as my purpose.

 

When getting out of trouble becomes my purpose, I would desperately do anything. I mean, I lose sleep, panic and worry my way into a solution that usually fails and then I panic more. GOD wants to change that. HE brings me back to having purpose in my life, namely teaching people about the Good News of JESUS.

 

With purpose, temptations go away. It is easier to say “no” to fear, doubt and worry when GOD is my true purpose. Staying in the trial becomes easier when I have purpose because I know GOD wants me right where HE has me and HE is with me. I can then have peace wherever HE places me.

 

What is your purpose in life?

What is GOD’s purpose for you?

Will you accept GOD’s real purpose HE made you so you can speak about JESUS today?

Answer the Call

 

Answer the Call

Romans 8: ²⁸ We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose. ²⁹ Those whom God had already chosen he also set apart to become like his Son, so that the Son would be the first among many believers. ³⁰ And so those whom God set apart, he called; and those he called, he put right with himself, and he shared his glory with them.

 

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Avoiding the phone became a normal occurrence. I let the answering machine screen the calls because I did not have any money and could not see getting any money in the near future. Yes, I said answering machine. I would hear the creditors asking for money I did not have. The call would only make me feel worse.

 

• Many times I avoided calls because I was afraid of the caller.
• Many times I avoided calls because I thought I could not do what the caller was asking.
• Many times I avoided calls because I knew I would have to confess that I owed something, but could not repay.

 

Paul says something that can be a little hard to understand. He talks about GOD choosing people. The sinful question that tries to negate GOD choosing people is “Why?” Paul does not explain “why”, rather he encourages those who have been chosen by GOD to know the calling has purpose. This purpose brings the good of GOD, so HIS calling is one that gives power.

 

• GOD has called me for HIS purpose.
• GOD has chosen me to become like JESUS.
• GOD has put me right with HIMSELF so I can do HIS will.

 

Answering GOD’s call is strange. I mean, HE seems to call at the wrong time, in the wrong way. Just like a creditor calling when I have no money, GOD seems to call when I am not ready or have nothing to give. BUT HIS call needs to be answered.

 

GOD wants me to be powerless so I can truly point to HIS power. HE gives me purpose and shares HIS glory with me. The purpose is to share the love of JESUS with as many as GOD has given me. I accept GOD’s calling on my life.

 

• Is GOD trying to speak to you but you are too busy or worried with life?
• Does your bills or desires make you not want to hear GOD’s calling?
• Will you let go of the control you have on your life and allow GOD to give you purpose that is meaningful today?

You are Alive!

 

You are Alive!

Romans 8: ⁹ You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. ¹⁰ But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. ¹¹ And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

 

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Being granted the time off work excited me. My boss was gracious enough to give me some extra time to go on a missions trip. This excited me about the company I worked for at the time, though the work hours were very, very long and the environment could be filled with pressure. On the trip, I met a man who showed me his hut, wife, lemon tree and cow. He was so excited. He seemed more alive than I could ever imagine.

 

• There were times when I thought I was alive, but I may have been dead.
• There were times when I felt I was living “the dream” but I may have been in a nightmare.
• There may have been times when I believed I was the one in control, but I needed something else to live inside me to take control.

 

Paul switches over from discussing sin to speaking about the Spirit. He explains that the HOLY SPIRIT lives inside those who believe in JESUS as the one and only Savior of humanity. Paul also points out that if HOLY SPIRIT, who was powerful enough to raise JESUS from the dead, lives in you, HE can certainly raise you up as well.

 

• The HOLY SPIRIT makes me alive.
• The HOLY SPIRIT guides me daily.
• The HOLY SPIRIT gives me comfort, wisdom, knowledge and understanding.

 

The most overlooked being is the HOLY SPIRIT. I mean, the HOLY SPIRIT has to do the dirty work by living inside a sinful person like myself. HE warns me not to fall into the temptation, yet I fall anyway. HE then goes before the throne and advocates on my behalf in groans I could never understand.

 

HE rejoices when I step away from temptation and praises me when I serve those HE leads me to. HE protects, provides and brings me to an abundant life of heavenly riches, versus a dead life of earthly bondage. I am grateful for being raised from a dead life and made alive by GOD!

 

• Are you dead thinking you are alive?
• Do you have a lot of accolades but have not received praise from the HOLY SPIRIT?
• Will you seek what GOD wants you to do and be alive versus living a life tied to death today?

An Obligation

 

An Obligation

Romans 1: ¹³ You must remember, my friends, that many times I have planned to visit you, but something has always kept me from doing so. I want to win converts among you also, as I have among other Gentiles. ¹⁴ For I have an obligation to all peoples, to the civilized and to the savage, to the educated and to the ignorant. ¹⁵ So then, I am eager to preach the Good News to you also who live in Rome.

 

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“No” was my sharp answer to her rudeness. She spoke in a very demanding tone that I did not appreciate. She could see a box addressed to her sitting on the shelf but I refused to give it to her. “Come back in a few hours when I am off work and maybe that person will be able to help you.”

 

• There have been some people who have been very rude to me.
• There have been some people who treated me poorly.
• There have been some people who I felt justified by not helping them.

 

Paul continues writing his letter, expressing his eagerness to visit, but was delayed from doing so. He kept the letter upbeat by not mentioning the beatings he had received for speaking about JESUS as the one and only Savior of the world. Instead, he spoke about his obligation to preach the Good News to win converts for the LORD.

 

• GOD wants me to have a life filled with HIS purpose.
• GOD wants me to be obligated to speak about JESUS to those who ignore HIM.
• GOD wants me to be able to speak to someone who is too educated to believe in HIM.

 

Living an obligated life means I grow up to think about my reaction versus reacting immediately. GOD wants me to live for HIS purpose so that means I may have to speak to people who do not look or act like me.

 

HE loves when I pray for those who speak down to me and who curse at me. This is not weakness but a display of surrender to GOD’s power to handle the situation. I am grateful GOD has given me purpose that obligates me to desire salvation through JESUS for all.

 

• What do you feel obligated to do?
• Do you serve your family or go to work regularly?
• Can you add speaking about JESUS as the world’s Savior to your list of obligations today?

Not My Will

Not My Will

Acts 21: ¹² When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. ¹³ Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” ¹⁴ When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, “The Lord’s will be done.”

¹⁵ After this, we started on our way up to Jerusalem. ¹⁶ Some of the disciples from Caesarea accompanied us and brought us to the home of Mnason, where we were to stay. He was a man from Cyprus and one of the early disciples.

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Excited that I was going to finally have sex, I figured out my plan down to the letter. I would “borrow” the car pick up the girl from her house, have sex and go back home. The plan was brilliant. When I asked for the car, I was met with “It needs a new radiator. It’s not going anywhere.”

• Many times I have been prevented from doing what I wanted to do.
• Many times my plans have been derailed.
• Many times my will was pointed in a, not so good, direction.

A huge crowd tried to persuade Paul from going to Jerusalem. When they heard the prophecy of his imprisonment, and knowing what happened to JESUS, they wanted to play it safe. But Paul was not persuaded. He knew he had to lay aside his will and live for GOD.

• GOD wants me to lay aside my will for HIS.
• GOD wants me to sacrifice my will and live for HIM.
• GOD wants me to see my will can get in the way of HIS will.

“YOUR will be done”, are hard words to say. I mean, I want to be in control of the situation or get my way. BUT GOD loves when I say and mean those words. When I want to do something sinful and back off because of GOD said not to do it, HE rejoices and rewards me.

HE also loves when I do something HE wants me to do, especially when I don’t want to do it; like apologize first, or give my last dollar to a homeless person or call the lonely even though they have never called me. I am glad to do GOD’s will for it has many rewards.

• Are you frustrated because you are not getting your way?
• Do you think your way is aligned to what GOD wants in your life?
• Will you take a moment and ask GOD to do HIS will in your life even if it means to let go of something precious to you?

Missed Because of Purpose

Missed Because of Purpose

Acts 20: ³⁶ When Paul had finished speaking, he knelt down with all of them and prayed. ³⁷ They all wept as they embraced him and kissed him. ³⁸ What grieved them most was his statement that they would never see his face again. Then they accompanied him to the ship.

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Looking back, the people I missed the most were those who had integrity. I mean, these were the people who taught me something I still use to this very day. Their selflessness opened my eyes to a whole new way of behavior. I remember them fondly.

• There were people in my life who had a sense of purpose.
• There were people in my life who spoke “the” truth versus “a” truth.
• There were people in my life who taught me to spread the love of JESUS.

Paul finished speaking to the group of leaders who were strong followers of CHRIST and knelt down to pray. They wept because Paul told them they would never see him again. He demonstrated and spoke with integrity about JESUS. Though they grieved, they understood.

• GOD understands when I grieve over the loss of a person.
• GOD wants me to live my life with HIS purpose so when HE removes me from people HE sent me to, I would have fulfilled what HE told me to do.
• GOD want me to point my life to HIS everlasting life so they can have HIS give of love forever.

With JESUS being the purpose of my life, I can fulfill what HE wants me to do with everyone around me. I can also recognize when others are living their life with purpose. Even if we are separated and I cannot see them for a while, I know it will not be forever.

I will have an eternity to spend with those who believe in JESUS and lived their life with purpose. I will miss those who have gone before me, but my grief for them is not forever. I am grateful GOD has put people in my life who have lived for HIS purpose.

• Are you living your life for GOD’s purpose?
• Do you want people to miss you or are you preparing them for eternal life with you and JESUS?
• Will you live your life with purpose that GOD has given you so you can shorten the grief of others if you are separated from them today?

Called to Action

Called to Action

Acts 13: ⁴ So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. ⁵ And when they arrived in Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. They also had John as their assistant.

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“Unload the truck” was the statement from our supervisor. It was a hot summer day on the temporary job. “You want to play a game to pass the time?” a coworker asked me. “Sure” I replied. We goofed off for a long while.

The supervisor came back and saw practically nothing was done. “Get this done!” he exclaimed. Looking back, I did not know the company was being charged fees for taking too long to unload.

• There was a time when I did not take my calling seriously.
• There was a time when I looked at my calling as a distraction.
• There was a time when I went in other directions from my calling.

Barnabas and Saul were sent by the HOLY SPIRIT to do a great work for HIM. They sailed to the place they were sent. The moment they arrived, they preached the word of GOD. They wasted no time.

• GOD wants me to obey HIS calling immediately.
• GOD wants me to get rid of my complaints about HIS calling and respond with action.
• GOD wants me to see not doing HIS calling as something to fear.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. When GOD calls me to do something, HE wants immediacy. HE is patient though. HE knew I would walk away from HIS calling or half do it from time to time. HE grows me up to see the importance of HIS calling so I will take it seriously and not complain. I am grateful GOD rewards me when obey HIM.

• Are you half-serving GOD?
• Do you place the world’s situations over GOD’s calling?
• Will you answer GOD’s calling on your life with immediacy and priority today?

Encourage with Purpose

Encourage with Purpose

Acts 11: ²² Then news of these things came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent out Barnabas to go as far as Antioch. ²³ When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad, and encouraged them all that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord. ²⁴ For he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.

²⁵ Then Barnabas departed for Tarsus to seek Saul. ²⁶ And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

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“Become a speaker to high schoolers” someone suggested . “What should I say?” was my reply. “Just talk about what you do” was the suggestion. I did just that and I could hear “get off the stage” in their lack of attention. Another speaker suggested I encourage them next time. I did and that went much better.

• There were times when I just wanted to speak.
• There were times when I wanted to be part of the solution but went about it in a bragging way.
• There were times when I was not confident in what I could offer and it showed when I spoke.

Barnabas was sent to Antioch because the news of the people believing in JESUS had spread. When he arrived, he saw the grace of GOD. People must have had so much joy, that it showed on their faces in spite of their circumstances. Barnabas encouraged them with “purpose of heart.”

• GOD wants me to live my life for HIS purpose.
• GOD wants me to bear HIS fruit while HE sustains me.
• GOD wants me to encourage others to believe in HIM, give their lives to HIM and live their lives with purpose for HIM.

Encouraging people is great. Encouraging people to live their lives with purpose for GOD is exactly what HE is looking for. HE wants people to be encouraged enough to want to bear fruit. This is not easy, especially when the circumstances seem to grow larger each day.

GOD cared enough to warn humans about the days we are in. HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live inside me so I would hold on, otherwise I would give up. HIS message of love filled my heart. I am grateful HE wants me to encourage others for HIM.

• Have you been believing in JESUS as the answer to everything?
• Have you put your trust in GOD continuously?
• Will you continue to grow in HIS faith, knowing HE sees you and hears you and is pleased with you and what you just did for “that” person?