God is Purposeful
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3-5 (NIV)
As I sat alone in the room waiting for my Bible study group to arrive, I looked at the clock and it was time to start. I waited, thinking that the weather or other circumstances had caused them to be late. Fifteen minutes later, still no one. Doubts crept into my mind. Is it the study? Is it my leadership? I decided to wait another 15 minutes. Still no one. I waited a few more minutes and started gathering my things to go home. Just as I was about to leave one of the ladies from the group walked into the room. “I need to talk,” she said tearfully. After over an hour of listening, sharing and praying we embraced and left. As I walked to my car I smiled and thought how amazing it is that God has a plan and purpose for each and every day. God is so personal. He knows our every need. Even those who were absent were excited to hear how God’s purpose for that day was fulfilled. And why should we be surprised? God tells us in Romans 8:28 (NLT) And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
God is purposeful. His purpose is eternal. At times we question, “Why?” When we don’t understand or when we see that evil appears to prosper, it is difficult to understand why God would allow such things. We are reminded in Exodus 9:15-17 (NLT) when God spoke to Pharaoh, He said, “By now I could have lifted my hand and struck you and your people with a plague to wipe you off the face of the earth. But I have spared you for a purpose—to show you my power and to spread my fame throughout the earth.” Then in Proverbs 16:4 (NIV), we read, “The Lord works out everything to its proper end—even the wicked for a day of disaster.” While we only see the situations that surround us or directly affect us, God sees eternity. Proverbs 20:24 (NLT) says, “The Lord directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way?”
God allowed me to experience His purpose for that day. It was exciting and filled me with joy. God’s love and faithfulness are the foundation of His eternal purpose for our lives. As we trust Him, though our limited vision of eternity may bring about questions, our clear vision of God’s purpose brings peace. His purpose is directed to a specific end – that we know Him and have a relationship with Him. God is purposeful.
But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. Psalm 33:11 (NIV)
Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21 (NIV)
What a privilege it is to be a part of accomplishing God’s purpose. With each day new opportunities come to yield to the purposes of God. All too often, busy with daily tasks, I overlook the opportunities God brings into my day. It could be as simple as talking with a neighbor who needs encouragement or as great as investing time in the life of one who needs to experience the love of God. Even the smallest act of kindness can be the beginning of accomplishing God’s eternal purpose. I pray that God will open my eyes to the opportunities to join in His work.
The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands. Psalm 138:8 (ESV)
I am so glad that your day ended with a purposeful conversation. You are right; we often don’t see our purpose this side of heaven, and we need to trust that He will bring purpose.
I am always amazed ( and I shouldn’t be) by those God moments when He uses us. Thank you for sharing.
Great word! I pray the following prayer every day, from The Divine Hours:
Lord God Almighty and Everlasting Father, You have brought me in safety to this new day. Preserve me with Your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity. And in all I do, direct me to the fulfilling of Your purpose, through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.
We need this reminder every day that we are here to fulfill His purposes.