Purposefully Intentioned

Posted: November 28th, 2011 Category: Christianity, Common Sense

“I love this, it’s just so perfect, it’s what I was born to do”! From a Christian perspective, this is a very flawed assumption and statement. What we want to do with our lives and what God wants us to do are more often than not, entirely different. Once we decide that we love some activity, receive some rewards, or somebody tells us; “you’re a natural,” we conclude that this must be our purpose in life. This can be a heart breaking, life wasting experience. God is purposefully intentioned about our lives, that’s why He created us in the first place. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”. (Jeremiah 29:11 NIV). His plans and our plans have different objectives and outcomes. Is it bad, following our hearts? Our parents want us to be happy, they encouraged us to pursue our dreams. They affirmed and validated our desires and pursuits with the naive expectation that pursuing those dreams would surely bring happiness and joy to our lives. For some this works, while for others it can be devastating and demoralizing. How can we know what God wants us to do?

The first step is asking God. The second step is listening and being open to implementing His answer. While the first step is easy, this second step requires oodles of faith. Listening to God is a multi-sensory activity. God uses us and those (other Christians) around us, for validation and affirmation. Since God speaks directly to all true Christians through the Holy Spirit, it’s not realistic to expect that His follow up counsel will be channeled through those who are not His dedicated followers (those who’ve not accepted His Holy Spirit). Others often lead us way from God’s plan. God’s plans are validated by opportunities (doors opening) and receptivity (affirmation). The results will “prosper” us, to be fortunate or successful, to thrive. For a few this means financial rewards, but fortunate more often means unexpected or unforeseen happiness. The final part of that scripture, Hope and a future are the underpinnings of Christianity, going well beyond this life. “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed.” (Acts 13:36 NIV). Note that David’s body decayed, “But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay.” (Acts 13:37 NIV). Serving God’s purpose is the desire of every devoted Christian, it absolutely is not the price of admission! That gift comes through Jesus Christ alone.