Calling and Purpose—Ridiculous Attention

“It’s through our ridiculous attention to everything Jesus said and did that we discover the truth about God and the truth about ourselves…When we let our pursuit of Jesus guide our understanding of God, our lives will be transformed by what we discover.” From The Jesus-Centered Life, Rick Lawrence

 Understanding and pursuing calling and purpose is important.  However, even more critical is where we focus our eyes, our hearts, our thoughts. The danger inherent in the whole “purpose” conversation is becoming too self-absorbed, perhaps too self-made.  In fact, the way we discover the truth of who we are is in relation to knowing Jesus. The more we pay attention to Him—to His life, to His teachings, to His work through the Holy Spirit in our hearts—the more we become our best selves, our whole selves, our freest selves. We understand His generous heart.  We respond in gratitude for His mercy and grace and forgiveness.  We see the wisdom of His intentions for us, the church, His Body. We get less competitive about our gifts.  We believe in our worth. We can follow our calling knowing that He takes care of the results.  We can carry out our purpose knowing that He enables us to do what He asks us to do—with His gifts and His timing.

 ·       Have you read one of the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, John—lately? 

·       Consider doing so this week/month.

·       Reacquaint yourself with Jesus’ heart and teachings and life.

·       Spend time talking with Him.

·       Set aside time to listen to Him.

 ·       How does this help you with perspective?

·       With reducing your anxiety about accomplishments?

·       With embracing your gifts, calling, and purpose?

For more on this, explore GodGiftsYou.com.

 Shirley Giles Davis, author of the God. Gifts. You.: Your Unique Calling and Design workbook, is a consultant, coach, facilitator who has worked with faith-based organizations, nonprofit agencies, and law enforcement leadership for over 30 years.  She has been EquipConnectServe Ministry Director at a 1,200 member church since 1999.  Contact Shirley.

 Photo © Shirley Giles Davis, all rights reserved.