Living Changed: PurposeSample

In the Waiting

The first three days of this plan gave you a lot to think about. It would be understandable if you’re feeling overwhelmed as you try to connect the dots between what you’re passionate about, what you’re good at, and the hard things you’ve overcome. Instead of stressing or obsessing about it, embrace the time in the waiting. Maybe He wants to teach you something before He shows you His plans for you. 

For me, I needed to learn how to see myself through the lens of God’s truth before I could see His bigger picture for my life. There were too many times I believed the lie that I had nothing to offer and I almost let it keep me from doing what God wanted me to do. When I was starting in ministry, I felt like I didn’t know enough Scripture and I wasn’t talented enough to do anything worthwhile. Despite my insecurities, I promised God that I would surrender to whatever He put in front of me. When I stepped out of my comfort zone and offered to serve, I was surprised to find that what I could offer was wanted and needed. The truth is no one ever saw me as incapable or untalented, least of all God. Still, I had given the lies in my head more power over my life than the truth of God’s Word. 

Moses also understood feelings of inadequacy. In the book of Exodus, God uses Moses to free the Israelites from Egyptian slavery and give them the Jewish laws they followed for centuries. Moses was one of the most important leaders in Israelite history, but when God called him to step into that purpose, Moses didn’t believe he was qualified for the job. Even when God promises to be with him, Moses insists he’s not good enough and asks God to send someone else. Pause and think about that. Moses is talking to the all-powerful God who isn’t bound by time, knows everything there is to know, and still wants to use him. That should be enough to give Moses confidence. Yet, how many times do we do the same thing?

Right now, you might be feeling unsure of your purpose or even incapable of doing what you feel lead to do. But you can believe God’s Word that says you do have unique gifts and talents. Maybe you can’t recognize your gifts because they seem insignificant in comparison to someone else’s or maybe you take them for granted because they come so easily. The truth is, those things that come naturally to you are not things that everyone can do. What you have to offer is special, and you’re meant to play an important role in God’s plan. Ask Him what that is.

If you’re not sure how to hear from God, get to know Him more. Read His Word, the Bible, every day. Develop a stronger prayer life by talking to Him and listening for Him. Surround yourself with people who reflect the image of Christ. Work toward an intimate relationship with God, and soon, you’ll be able to distinguish His voice when He prompts you. 

When you feel lost in the waiting, focus on listening to God. Learn what He says about you. Ask Him to help you spot and call out the lies so they no longer have a claim on you. Consider how you can practice obedience now, in the small things, so that you’re ready when He reveals more. Ask Him to show you what you’re good at, and then be willing to offer Him all you have. Do these things as you wait for Him because oftentimes, our purpose is just on the other side of our willingness to surrender and listen. 

God, thank you for creating a specific purpose just for me. Help me to see myself through your eyes and to throw off all the lies that might hold me down. Help me to believe that I am fearfully and wonderfully made in your image and that there is no one else like me. Continue to refine me and prepare me for the purpose you have for me. Show me the next step I should take to grow closer to you and to help fill the space you made for me in your Church. In Jesus' name, amen.