Focused, Purposeful, Bold a 5-Day Plan by Candace GrayÖrnek

Take New Ground!

How do you approach the start of a new year or season? Some people make resolutions, and some people set goals and create detailed plans. Some people just wing it, having been disappointed by previous failures in the past. But if you are a person with a strong desire to live a purpose-driven life, you can’t afford to wing it. You must set goals, make plans and try again because it’s not just about you. There are others who will be blessed because of what you do. You desire to be a change agent, problem-solver, healer, peacemaker, leader, creator, giver, and overall do-gooder. Your heart is to glorify God, help others, and make the world a better place.

In Numbers 13, God was preparing the Israelites to possess the land of Canaan. Twelve people were sent to examine the lay of the land. As they explored the land, they saw both the bountiful resources and the potential obstacles to possessing the land. When they returned from seeing the same set of facts, they arrived at two different conclusions: Caleb and Joshua concluded, “We should go up and take the land, for we can certainly do it.” The other ten concluded, “We can’t attack these people: they are stronger than we are.” (Numbers 13:31). They observed, “we seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.” (Numbers 13:33) One group focused on the power of God and the other group focused on their own limitations.

This devotional series is written to encourage you to keep moving forward in the power of God with living on purpose. You will face obstacles along the way that tempt you to view yourself as a grasshopper. But do not underestimate your significance and God’s power. The desire in your heart is there for a reason. The ideas you have are there for a reason. I encourage you to do what’s in your heart to do. I am praying for you to be focused, purposeful, and bold in this season. When we step out with the bold faith of Caleb, God is faithful to show up and help us.

Questions for Reflection:

• What’s holding you back from living out your purpose in bold, new ways?
• What purposeful ideas have you had in the past that you should reconsider?
• Are you more focused on your own limited ability or God’s unlimited power?