Serving God’s Purposes
November 5th, 2009Thursday’s Reflection
MOST PEOPLE … would probably be intimidated if asked, “How have you served God’s purposes lately?” because they immediately think of something “important” like missionary work, helping the downtrodden, or joining a protest against injustice. I’m convinced many, if not most, of us cross paths with one or more of God’s purposes each day, though we may not realize it.
- Robert Corin Morris
Provocative Grace: The Challenge in Jesus’ Words
From p. 117 of Provocative Grace: The Challenge in Jesus’ Words by Robert Corin Morris, Copyright © 2006 by the author. All Rights Reserved. Used with permission of Upper Room Books. http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/. Learn more about or purchase this book.
Today’s Question
How have you served God’s purposes lately? Share your reflections.
Today’s Scripture Reading
It is useless to work so hard for a living, getting up early and going to bed late. For the Lord provides for those he loves, while they are asleep.
- Psalm 127:2, GNT
This Week …
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November 5th, 2009 at 4:23 am
When I initially read today’s reading (before looking at the question) – I thought God is keeping it simple for me (not really simple) but not monumental as far as “important” work. He asks me to be faithful throughout my day – and to be aware of Him. I have a hard enough time with that. To take ordinary, mundane situations and see Christ in them, and to be Christ to others. To have that gentle touch, that patient ear, to reach out as opposed to walking away. Those situations are “important” to Him – and that is where He has me and is looking for my faithfulness…that is where I am asked to glorify Him.
So, to answer the question – I have and have not – I succeed and fail daily. There are moments when I am aware – and act with compassion and tenderness. Then there are moments (more of these) where I am on auto-pilot – just getting through the day.
Father – my prayer sounds the same, but it is not on auto-pilot mode right now – prod me with Your Spirit when I am complacent and just putting in the time. Help me to look deeper, to sense more and to receive others gently.
November 5th, 2009 at 6:49 am
Most of the time I try to be obedient in the obvious ways, and I am more successful at this some times more than others.
This question is valuable because it reminds me of things that I probably dropped the ball on, yesterday, and it suggests opportunities that I will have today to serve God’s purposes.
I can choose now to be more intentional in areas of my life, for example, my relations with co-workers and family, and pray that when presented with unexpected situations, I will look out for God’s interests in a situation and act accordingly.
November 5th, 2009 at 7:34 am
When I attempted to make amends with a teacher, when I try to see life from my brother’s perspective, when I pray for my son, when I set aside my incessant worrying—these meager attempts may be what God has in mind. Im off to a doctors appt then I see a client. I’ll look for ways to serve HIS purpose in these as well as other unexpected opportunities.
November 5th, 2009 at 8:06 am
I’m trying to serve God’s purpose by changing my life to serve Him. A couple year ago, I was a lost soul, living a very selfish life, leaving the Lord out of my life. I was hopelessly addicted to drugs, and they were destroying my life.
About 13 months ago, the Lord gave me the strength to make the call that saved my life. I checked into rehab that afternoon. It was there that I reconnected with my Savior Jesus Christ. His grace, mercy and love keeps me on this road of recovery.
I’m serving Him by being an example to my family.
I’ve been attending church and I have peace that I’ve never, ever experienced. I’m more patient than I’ve ever been.
Father, help me to continue being an example to my family so that they may know You the way I have come to know You. Help me to be a better wife, mother, daughter and person. In Jesus name I pray, Amen
November 5th, 2009 at 4:30 pm
I am trying very hard to remember that God is in control of all situations. I’m not sure right now that I am serving God’s purposes because I am out of work and my whole focus is consumed with finding another job. I know that the Bible says that God provides and I pray every day that he will lead me in the direction that he wants me to go, but I still have to feed my family and pay my bills, so this brings me right back to the “real” world vs. God’s way. It’s so difficult right now and all I can do is pray for guidance.
November 5th, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Whenever i am down about my health or life, It hits me in my mind and i say dont worry, God is here and will take care of it in do time. So i always remeber that, in my head. I Love You God and thank you for being here for me, when know one else is, at times….In his precious name…we pray(JESUS)……..AMEN!