I use to feel so lost and alone in the world. I still feel like that sometimes, but not like I used to be haunted by it. The main reason, I believe, people feel lost and alone is because they are without purpose. What is the point of life? I have wondered, and heard many wonder the same.
There have been so many emotional ups and downs over the course of my life, and when I got saved, I think I thought that my purpose would get focused and clear, but my Christian walk has proved to be more complex and challenging in the area of "finding my purpose".
I have made all the lists and journaled my hobbies, interests, talents, etc. over the years trying to get clearer more focused direction, but I end up in the same place-- feeling lack of focus and all over the place. The bottom line is that purpose is not found in fulfilling some career or trade, ministry or profession. Having a home life that meets a picture fantasy, the perfect relationship, or right amount of children. The purpose of life isn't wrapped in anything on the earth. Its such a simple truth isn't it? This has been my meditation this week:
"Jesus said to him, 'you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment." Matthew 22:37-38 NKJV
The greatest purpose in life is wholehearted love for God. Easy to know, difficult to understand. I feel like I know all the right words and IHOP-isms, but I still don't understand what it really means to be "wholehearted". Every time I feel like I have given myself fully to God, I see areas I am lacking in love. He tenderly and simply reminds me that the highest calling and purpose He had for me is to be the one He is looking for. He is not looking for a successful ministry, perfect family, or up and rising business, He is looking for a lover of Himself.
"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthened those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him." (2 Chronicles 16:9 NIV)
- gina
Oh my gosh Gina this so speaks to me! I realize that I have been without hope and purpose and it has made me feel so lost and depressed. I have felt like I was drifting along and had no power to change. Thank you for reminding me that my job and purpose foremost is to love the Lord. God knows I need strength now. It's comforting to know that you go through this sometimes too.
ReplyDeleteLove, Laura DeLeon
Thank you for what you wrote, because it speaks to me so much - since becoming unemployed (a long while back), and not being able to find a new job in my field, I often struggle with feelings of lack of purpose. But the time away from work has enabled me to grow in love of God, and what you wrote has helped me to see this, and also to see that this is absolutely the most important purpose we could have in life.
ReplyDeleteWe are all lacking in love, but the quote you included from Chronicles (thank you!) is reassuring in that we can count on God strengthening us, because we are devoted to Him. And I'm sure this includes strengthening us in loving Him.
Hi Gina,
ReplyDeleteIsn't it wonderful knowing that we were created to worship God? When non-Christians come to realize this it fills you up and quenches the thirst that has been unquenchable. Even when Christians come to realize this, that we have purpose in worshiping God, we become filled in a way that is most satisfying.
I love how you put this, totally makes sense.
Blessings,
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It so encourages my soul to have been able to share this and it be the "word in due season". That was the prayer in making this blog, that i could listen and write what God is revealing in the now" hour. It encourages me that I am first, hearing God, and second, encouraging others. I personally need encouragement, and I believe Jesus desires us to encourage one another! (Heb. 3:13) Thank each of you for responding :) gina
ReplyDeleteThis is a good word Gina! I still feel at times. I can be in a room full of people and feel alone. But you are right. My purpose in life is to first love God. Anything after that is just extra credit!
ReplyDeleteHello,
ReplyDeleteThis blog is really very helpful. If you are asking yourself about what your life plan is, it means that you have already accepted the fact that your life needs to have a purpose. It means that you are now prepared to take more responsibility of driving your own life wheel for the attainment of your dreams with passion and happiness. Thank you..
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