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Something is only abused if it is not used for its intended purpose.

I’m usually not a fan of sequels, let alone trilogies, but yet I’m now writing one. The more I think on this topic the more God gives me to write in order that someone could finally let that proverbial light bulb go off in their head. Years ago I read “Purpose-Driven” life and I really gained one thing that sticks with me to this day. It was that we were created for worship. We as humans were created for the sole purpose of giving glory to God. Do you understand what that means? I’d like to transition to the abstract now to illustrate my point. Let’s think of the architect that designs a building. Well first a need must be present. A building may be needed to be used as a nursery. So the architect will design the building with the particulars of a nursery in mind. Perhaps he’ll include things like a covered patio for drop-offs, pick-ups, and a large play area for the children and restrooms with changing areas, etc. I believe you get the picture. But understand that the architect designs the building to its necessary specifications. Why? Because the building’s purpose is to accommodate children on a daily basis so there are certain requirements so that the purpose is fulfilled. Note, that if the purpose isn’t fulfilled the building is useless. Ok, so away from the abstract now and let’s make this really practical. In my life, I struggled in sin, defeat and shame when I didn’t realize God’s purpose for my life. God designed me to fulfill a particular need in his kingdom. Let’s say I was that nursery that was designed to accommodate children. If I up and decided I wanted to be a football stadium that wouldn’t work to well. My design wouldn’t be sufficient and more importantly I no longer fulfill the need intended. Well that is what we as believers do. Believers don’t realize or understand their purpose in the kingdom so they try and fit into all these roles that don’t suit them. They end up with no joy and they start to believe they are useless; when all along God created them specifically for something. So you probably are saying, what is the magic formula then? Well I don’t really think it is magic. If you find yourself worshipping God for how awesome he is in your life he’ll lead you right into your purpose in a body of believers that will make room for what you do. Let me say that again. If you work on letting God get the glory from a life that seeks to be like him, he will put you in the place that he created for you before you were born. Jeremiah 1:5 says, “before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee…” So knowing this, my question is, why do we wander so aimlessly about in God’s kingdom when He already has an office and desk with our nameplate on it? Understanding your God-given purpose and how it fits into his kingdom is not complicated if we start by doing the right thing--remembering that he created each and every one of us for worship. Let this be your walk of faith!

Lord, I can do so many things in life that bring dishonor to your name. Lord my prayer is that you teach me the things that will glorify your name and point me into my God-given purpose. Amen

Suggested readings: Jeremiah 1:4-10; John 17:1-4; Isaiah 61:1-3

"Refreshment in Refuge" from Gina Burgess

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