Created With Purpose
WHY AM I here? What's my purpose? Questions I've considered. And most
everyone else too.
Adolescents contemplate them and the answers normally chart their life's course.
Not considering them leads to roller coaster rides with little direction and
accompanying unwise decisions.
I faced them as a teenager but never reached clear conclusions. My dad was a
preacher. Was it my destiny to be one too? My grandfather drove an ice cream
truck, and that too seemed quite appealing, especially living in the steaming
South. My mom worked at vehicle dealerships. Perhaps I was destined for award
winning salesmanship.
But God revealed his purpose to me before adolescence: Ministry. At twelve I
accepted it-but not at fifteen. Then rebelling and going my own way seemed more
attractive and fun. So I did for eight years. Then it stopped being enjoyable.
My fun wasn't taking me anywhere and the years were accumulating. So I decided
to try God's plan. It didn't remove each obstacle or solve every problem, but I
had the peace of knowing I was going in the right direction fulfilling my life's
purpose.
Paul maintains God equips his children with various gifts and talents. Since we
have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to
exercise them accordingly. (Romans 12:6)
While many people possess identical gifts, they are exercised differently
because of circumstances, opportunities and personalities. Mine were too but I
used them my way-or rather God's way for me.
My conclusion I had purpose was finally reached when I accepted God's design.
There's no one else identical to me-or you. And no one can adequately do what
God plans for us. This is our time.
God creates with purpose in mind but never forces his plan on us. It's ours to
accept or reject. But not without consequence. Success and fulfillment come by
doing his plan his way.
Prayer: Father, guide us to discover Your purpose and give us the courage to
live it out.
Martin Wiles mandmwiles@homesc.com
Harleyville, South Carolina, USA
www.morningliteministry.com