Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Grace, faith, and purpose



You know, I've often heard that God has a specific plan for each of us but this verse really hit me with the truth of it. You and I are here to fill some specific purpose that our Father "prepared in advance for us to do." For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith- and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God- not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:8-10
The question for all of us is are we doing it?
Oh, how I struggle with this sometimes! There's so many things I'd love to do for God; work in an orphanage in Romania, or with the children in Africa that have lost their families to HIV...or maybe travel with some sort of medical team, using my nursing skills? How do we know when we're doing what God has made us for?
Well. I'm by no means an expert, but I believe that when we're heading in the direction he wants us to go he will do two things: he'll give us a peace in our hearts and he'll let events fold out in a way that confirms what we're doing. Or not! If everything is going wrong, perhaps we're going the wrong way. Sometimes the enemy attacks us when we are doing right, but I've experienced both and they feel different.
The best we can do is search his word and pray with all sincerity.  Sometimes I think he just wants me to do what I'm doing right now, writing for his kingdom. I joined the ministry at the church going out on the first and third Friday nights ministering to the prostitutes and I find that I absolutely love it. I can't tell you how rewarding it is to pray for these young women who are in the worst place of their lives.

So why did God put you here? Is there a person that would only listen to matters of faith from you, perhaps a sibling or parent or close friend? Do you have a particular talent you can use for his glory? I've always wished I could sing for him, but sadly, no.
One thing to remember is that our every action and word is our testimony to whomever sees us at the time.
Now we ALL blow it from time to time. That's our humanity. But when we blow it, what an opportunity to go back and humbly ask for forgiveness or whatever is needed. That in itself can be a very good testimony.

One more thing about this verse: it reminds us that no matter what good works we do, we are saved solely by our Fathers' grace and mercy.  Hang onto your gratefulness for that and it will keep away pride, I believe.

We are God's workmanship! Created in Christ Jesus to do good works that he planned out ahead of time.
How he must love us...
I was wondering what song to share with you today and it just occurred to me...it fits! Thanks, Father.
Wishing you all blessings.

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