Perfect Purpose

 “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I may show My power in you, and that My name may be declared in all the earth.” (Romans 9:17, NKJV)

Earlier this summer, I awoke with a feeling of intense gratitude and overwhelming sense of humility that God choses to use ordinary, flawed people like me in His kingdom.

I began to pray, leading off with the lyrics to a song that I have lately come to hold close to my heart:

“… lead my steps, change my ways, put Your purpose in this place…
I need you
I need you
I need you for real success
I need you for my next breath…”

These words are so powerful because they take me back to the foot of the Cross where I need to daily leave “me” to be crucified; nailed to that tree; and covered by the life-changing blood of Calvary. I can do absolutely nothing on my own. And I never want to try. Without God, nothing is possible through me.

In that moment, I realized that God was giving me a second chance. I grew up going to church. I went to Bible college. I knew about God.  I went through the motions and did everything that I was supposed to do as a Christian. But, I never did completely surrender all my hopes, all my dreams and all my plans. On that summer morning,  I made a renewed commitment to truly surrender.

I want to reflect Jesus wherever I go; in whatever I do. Whenever I open my mouth, I desire that He is the only voice that is heard.

I have never desired to be “seen”. As an introvert, I’ve always preferred solitude and never wanted to be the center of attention. Now that I desire to be used in a world-changing way, I submit to His desires above my own. His plans above my own.  Lord, let them see You in me.

I challenge anyone who has a pulse; anyone who sees people headed for an eternity without God; anyone who spends time with people on a daily basis – NOW is the time to fulfill your purpose. There is no guarantee of tomorrow. How you served God in the past is past. Determine from this day forward that you are going to be a fully surrendered servant to the Most High God. Cull everything from your life that has no eternal value – everything that wastes precious time.   Focus on following His purpose. Declutter your mind so you can hear His voice.

Let’s pray this prayer:

Mighty God, I know that You have all the power; that You can do exceeding abundantly above what we can ask or think. I want to lead souls to you. I want to be lead by Your Spirit. I want You to work in me and through me to further Your kingdom, not so I will be seen, but so that You will be seen. Remove everything that will hinder Your will for my life moving forward. Lead my steps; change my ways; put your “perfect purpose” in my heart; and create situations where Your power will be manifested.   Change my world  through You working through me.  In Jesus’ name, amen!