LIVING WITH PURPOSE
Alicia Gibson
Today’s Scripture: “And when it was day, he departed and went into a desolate place. And the people sought him and came to him, and would have kept him from leaving them, but he said to them, ‘I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns as well; for I was sent for this purpose.’” Luke 4:42-43, ESV
Theme: When Jesus was urged to stay, He remained focused on the purpose of preaching the Gospel in other places, also. We strive to do likewise.
DREAMS AND VISIONS
At just six years old, I remember feeling a call to Africa and knowing that one day I would serve globally. Fast-forward over two decades; through marriage, raising children, building careers, and managing household responsibilities... that dream would creep back in. Yet I often wondered how it could ever be realized. Honestly, I felt useful in the daily tasks of changing diapers, chauffeuring kids, and maintaining our home, but completely inadequate for ministry, especially missions. But God!
Our family, including our children, actively served within and outside the church walls. Then an incredible opportunity arose to serve in the global mission field. God ignited a fire in our hearts, and we have now been serving globally for ten years. What I know is that God gave me a dream and vision, instilled a passion in my husband, and blessed our children with humble hearts to serve.
There was a moment in time I could have chosen the easier path. I could have known my call, but made every excuse to procrastinate, not serve, not go. Obedience is not always easy. In Luke, Chapter 4, we witness Jesus as He lived out His purpose and calling. His obedience was far from easy. He preached, He shared truth, He stood firm when people rejected Him, and then He pressed on. He preached in new locations, performed miracles, endured all those who doubted, and then He rested in order that He could continue His work!
SLOW DOWN AND BE OBEDIENT
This year I re-started reading the Bible in a Year. Of course, first things first, you dig into the Old Testament. And one of the coolest things about reading the Bible is that every time you read Scripture it is like a light bulb goes off and something new is discovered.
This time around, the Sabbath really popped out at me. I felt deep conviction about the busyness of all aspects of our lives. So many things vie for our attention, and many of us excel at pleasing people, calendars, and kids, yet we often lose sight of pleasing God.
Continuing in Luke 4, we observe after His baptism, Jesus left everything, fasting and praying not for just one day, but for forty days! There was genuine need all around Him, yet He understood the necessity of stepping away, resting, connecting with His Father, and preparing for His divine purpose.
In my opinion, we have it easy! Here I am, grappling with God's commandment of one day of rest, while Jesus undertook FORTY. God blesses us when we are obedient. He has graciously gifted us the Sabbath – a day to rest and be replenished - so we can effectively live out our purpose!
IT’S TIME TO GO
After His period of rest, Jesus went out and proclaimed the Good News. The Great Commission for us as Christians is to do the same. If you find yourself struggling to understand where God wants you or what your purpose is, take some time to read Matthew 28:18-20. Our purpose is straightforward: go and teach people about Jesus!
My husband often says, “Your day job is your hobby; your purpose and mission are to reach people and make disciples.” This can sound intimidating. The fear of rejection, the inability to find the right words, or the concern of being perceived as strange are all very real. I promise that some people will indeed think you are a little unusual. However, they will also be very intrigued. You will be a light in every room and every conversation.
Your life will reflect the blessings and promises of God. And when they ask questions, you will have no trouble sharing why you are different, because you can attest to the blessings you have experienced as a child of God. This is your testimony, and your testimony cannot be disputed.
When you are obedient, God blesses you, and then He stretches you. You will go places you never dreamed you would go!
Make it Personal: Have you sensed the vision, dream, or purpose God has placed within you? When did you last delve into the Word and ask God to ignite a fire within you? This week, take a Sabbath. Take time to pray and ask God to help you recall the dream He gave you. And if you have never had a dream or realized your purpose, ask Him to reveal it to you. Be willing to receive and be willing to go where He calls!
Pray: Hello Jesus, I am thankful for every opportunity You have given me. I thank You for the opportunity to serve You in my workplace, in my church, and in my community. Lord, I ask that You remind me of the purpose You have placed on my life. I come to You, willing to witness and teach others about You, and willing to go wherever You call me. Amen
Read: Exodus 20:8, Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:15, Romans 10:14-15
Weekly Memory Verse: “How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!’” Romans 10:14-15, ESV