Discovering Your Divine Purpose in God
Summary
### Summary
Praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy. Today, we are focusing on discovering our purpose in God. We began by discussing the importance of our Sunday school program and the need for more workers to help guide our children. We also have an exciting event coming up with a group visiting from Uganda, and we are preparing to host them and provide for their needs.
Our main scripture today is from Luke 1:35-38, where Mary accepts God's purpose for her life with the words, "Be it unto me according to thy word." This scripture serves as a foundation for understanding that each of us has a divine purpose. Just as a toaster is useless if it doesn't toast, a Christian who doesn't fulfill their God-given purpose is not living up to their potential.
We explored the idea that many people are stuck in life because they are not aligned with God's will. They fill their lives with things that don't satisfy, like drugs, alcohol, or material possessions, but true joy and peace come from fulfilling God's purpose. We must reconcile with God and let go of sin to find our true calling.
Living a blessed life means surrendering to God's will and allowing Him to guide us. This involves making better decisions, staying in constant communication with God, and being receptive to His word. We must transition from our current state and be willing to let go of worldly desires to embrace God's plan for us.
In conclusion, discovering our purpose requires understanding the need for God in our lives, being receptive to His word, and having a plan to stay on the right path. As we pray and seek God's guidance, we can expect to live a blessed and fulfilling life.
### Key Takeaways
1. Understanding the Need for Purpose: Just as a toaster is useless if it doesn't toast, a Christian who doesn't fulfill their God-given purpose is not living up to their potential. We must recognize that God has a specific purpose for each of us, and our lives will be incomplete without fulfilling that purpose. [34:43]
2. Reconciliation with God: True joy and peace come from aligning our lives with God's will. Many people are stuck in life because they fill their lives with things that don't satisfy, like drugs, alcohol, or material possessions. Reconciliation with God is essential for discovering our true purpose. [38:11]
3. Living a Blessed Life: Surrendering to God's will and allowing Him to guide us leads to a blessed life. This involves making better decisions, staying in constant communication with God, and being receptive to His word. We must transition from our current state and be willing to let go of worldly desires to embrace God's plan for us. [45:54]
4. The Importance of Obedience and Expectation: Mary’s response to the angel, "Be it unto me according to thy word," highlights the importance of obedience and expectation in fulfilling God's purpose. When we say yes to God, we should also expect His word to be performed in us, guiding us out of our current struggles and into a life of purpose. [59:49]
5. Staying Receptive to God's Word: To discover and fulfill our purpose, we must stay in a constant state of receiving from God. This means living a life that reflects Christian values, such as avoiding sin and staying in control of our temper. By doing so, we remain open to God's guidance and blessings. [01:03:52]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[28:56] - Sunday School Program Update
[29:36] - Rotation of Sunday School Workers
[30:07] - Upcoming Event with Ugandan Group
[31:11] - Discover Your Purpose Program
[32:09] - Scripture Reading: Luke 1:35-38
[33:27] - Understanding the Need for Purpose
[34:43] - The Toaster Analogy
[36:07] - Reconciliation with God
[38:11] - The Enemy's Deception
[39:36] - The Void in Our Lives
[41:10] - Misplaced Expectations
[45:54] - Living a Blessed Life
[50:00] - Responsibility and Self-Care
[52:59] - True Worship and Surrender
[57:14] - Transitioning to God's Will
[01:03:52] - Staying Receptive to God's Word
[01:05:28] - The Need for a Plan
[01:13:12] - Final Prayer and Altar Call
[01:26:38] - Announcements and Dismissal
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Luke 1:35-38 (KJV): "And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible. And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her."
### Observation Questions
1. What was Mary's response to the angel's message in Luke 1:38, and why is it significant? [32:46]
2. According to the sermon, what analogy was used to describe a Christian who does not fulfill their God-given purpose? [34:43]
3. What are some examples given in the sermon of things people fill their lives with that do not satisfy? [36:07]
4. How does the pastor describe the process of living a blessed life according to God's will? [45:54]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it important for Christians to understand and accept their God-given purpose, as illustrated by Mary's response to the angel? [32:46]
2. How does the analogy of the toaster help us understand the importance of fulfilling our purpose in God? [34:43]
3. What does the sermon suggest is the result of trying to fill the void in our lives with worldly things instead of God's purpose? [38:11]
4. How does the pastor suggest we can transition from our current state to living according to God's will? [57:14]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on Mary's response to the angel, "Be it unto me according to thy word." How can you adopt a similar attitude of obedience and expectation in your own life? [32:46]
2. The sermon mentions that many people are stuck in life because they are not aligned with God's will. Are there areas in your life where you feel stuck? How can you seek God's guidance to move forward? [36:07]
3. The pastor talks about the importance of making better decisions and staying in constant communication with God. What practical steps can you take this week to improve your decision-making and communication with God? [45:54]
4. The analogy of the toaster was used to illustrate the importance of fulfilling our purpose. What specific talents or gifts do you believe God has given you, and how can you use them to fulfill your purpose? [34:43]
5. The sermon emphasizes the need to let go of worldly desires to embrace God's plan. Is there a specific worldly desire or habit you need to let go of? What steps can you take to surrender it to God? [57:14]
6. The pastor mentioned the importance of staying receptive to God's word. How can you create a daily routine that keeps you open and receptive to God's guidance? [01:03:52]
7. Reflect on the idea of living a blessed life by surrendering to God's will. Can you identify a recent decision where you chose God's will over your own? How did it impact your life? [45:54]
Devotional
Day 1: Recognizing Our Divine Purpose
Understanding the Need for Purpose: Just as a toaster is useless if it doesn't toast, a Christian who doesn't fulfill their God-given purpose is not living up to their potential. We must recognize that God has a specific purpose for each of us, and our lives will be incomplete without fulfilling that purpose. [34:43]
Each of us has a unique purpose designed by God, much like how a toaster is specifically made to toast bread. When we fail to live out this purpose, we are not fulfilling the potential God has placed within us. Many people go through life feeling unfulfilled because they are not aligned with God's will for them. They may seek satisfaction in various worldly pursuits, but true contentment comes from understanding and living out the purpose God has for us.
To discover this purpose, we must first acknowledge that we need God in our lives. This involves a willingness to listen to His word and be open to His guidance. By doing so, we can begin to understand the specific role we are meant to play in His grand design. Recognizing our divine purpose is the first step towards living a life that is both meaningful and fulfilling.
Ephesians 2:10 (ESV): "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
Reflection: What specific talents or passions has God given you that you can use to fulfill your divine purpose? How can you start using them today?
Day 2: Reconciliation with God
True joy and peace come from aligning our lives with God's will. Many people are stuck in life because they fill their lives with things that don't satisfy, like drugs, alcohol, or material possessions. Reconciliation with God is essential for discovering our true purpose. [38:11]
Many people find themselves trapped in cycles of dissatisfaction because they seek fulfillment in things that ultimately leave them empty. Whether it's through substance abuse, materialism, or other worldly pursuits, these temporary fixes can never provide the lasting joy and peace that come from a relationship with God. True contentment is found when we align our lives with God's will and purpose for us.
Reconciliation with God involves acknowledging our sins and turning away from them. It means seeking forgiveness and striving to live a life that is pleasing to Him. When we reconcile with God, we open ourselves up to His guidance and blessings, allowing us to discover and fulfill our true purpose. This process requires humility, repentance, and a genuine desire to follow God's path.
Isaiah 55:7 (ESV): "Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon."
Reflection: Are there any areas in your life where you are seeking fulfillment outside of God? What steps can you take today to reconcile with Him and seek His guidance?
Day 3: Surrendering to God's Will
Surrendering to God's will and allowing Him to guide us leads to a blessed life. This involves making better decisions, staying in constant communication with God, and being receptive to His word. We must transition from our current state and be willing to let go of worldly desires to embrace God's plan for us. [45:54]
Living a blessed life requires a complete surrender to God's will. This means trusting Him to guide our decisions and being open to His direction. It involves a daily commitment to stay in communication with God through prayer and reading His word. By doing so, we can make better decisions that align with His purpose for our lives.
Surrendering to God's will also means letting go of our worldly desires and ambitions. It requires a willingness to put aside our own plans and embrace the path that God has set before us. This transition can be challenging, but it is essential for living a life that is truly blessed and fulfilling. When we surrender to God, we allow Him to work in and through us, leading us to a life of purpose and joy.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV): "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you find yourself holding back from surrendering to God? What would surrendering this area to Him actually look like in terms of daily habits?
Day 4: Obedience and Expectation
Mary’s response to the angel, "Be it unto me according to thy word," highlights the importance of obedience and expectation in fulfilling God's purpose. When we say yes to God, we should also expect His word to be performed in us, guiding us out of our current struggles and into a life of purpose. [59:49]
Mary's response to the angel Gabriel is a powerful example of obedience and expectation. When she said, "Be it unto me according to thy word," she demonstrated a willingness to accept God's plan for her life, even though it was unexpected and challenging. Her obedience was coupled with an expectation that God's word would be fulfilled in her, guiding her through the journey ahead.
As Christians, we are called to have the same attitude of obedience and expectation. When we say yes to God, we should trust that He will perform His word in our lives. This means believing that He will guide us out of our current struggles and into a life of purpose and fulfillment. Obedience to God requires faith and trust, knowing that His plans for us are good and that He will provide the strength and guidance we need.
Luke 1:38 (ESV): "And Mary said, 'Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.' And the angel departed from her."
Reflection: Is there a specific area in your life where you need to say "yes" to God? How can you demonstrate both obedience and expectation in this area today?
Day 5: Staying Receptive to God's Word
To discover and fulfill our purpose, we must stay in a constant state of receiving from God. This means living a life that reflects Christian values, such as avoiding sin and staying in control of our temper. By doing so, we remain open to God's guidance and blessings. [01:03:52]
Staying receptive to God's word is essential for discovering and fulfilling our divine purpose. This involves living a life that reflects Christian values and principles. It means avoiding sin and striving to maintain a godly character in all aspects of our lives. By doing so, we keep our hearts and minds open to God's guidance and blessings.
Living a life that is receptive to God's word requires discipline and commitment. It involves regular prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking fellowship with other believers. It also means being mindful of our actions and attitudes, ensuring that they align with God's will. When we stay receptive to God's word, we position ourselves to receive His direction and fulfill the purpose He has for us.
James 1:21-22 (ESV): "Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to stay more receptive to God's word? How can you ensure that your actions and attitudes reflect Christian values?
Quotes
1. "Can you imagine that the same is true for the Christian who does not fulfill the purpose for which he or she was made? You see, each one of us has a purpose. Each one of us becomes of little or no value when we're not fulfilling that purpose. It starts with the conscience of knowing that I need to do something more, or there's something that we should be doing." [35:29] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "If you choose not to walk with God, if you choose not to do what God wants you to do, that's on you. But I'm here to let you know, all the joy that you're wanting, you can have it in God. All the peace, all the things that you want. I want to build an exciting life. I want to have a good life. You can find that good life in God. That's what we have to begin to do, is find God." [37:28] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When you find God, you find peace. When you find God, you find peace. When you find God, you find peace. When you find joy, when you find God, you find that motivation that you need. And so this morning we have to understand that our ways are different from God. There is a necessity. We have to stop going the direction that sin wants us to go and to direct ourselves the way that God wants us to go." [39:36] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You have to open up your heart to the very love of God and begin to allow God to lead you. When you look at people and they will not come and get their blessing. They will not come and receive from God. They're all over the place. And then you see them on Tuesday and Wednesday. I don't have any gas money. I don't have any food. We're living in our car and I'm not throwing stones at people. If that's the way you want to live, fine. But in my mind, you had an opportunity to become blessed." [46:43] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "We have to transition from our current state. Do you want to know your purpose? You'll never find your purpose living in a way outside of God's will. At some point, you've got to be saying, I'm willing. I'll serve you, God. I'll serve you. I'll go where you want me to go. I'll do whatever you want me to do. And as long as you want to hold on to sin, you're never going to be able to grow in Christ Jesus." [57:14] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "You have to say, yes. Yes, I'll let go of sin. Yes, I will receive your grace. As long as you try to live one foot in sin and one foot in the church house, it doesn't work. If we try to live holy and righteous on Sunday, and then live like the devil the rest of the week, that doesn't work. There's so many times that people want to come to church on Sunday morning, and they want to praise his name, oh, hallelujah, and thank you, Jesus. And then after service, they take off. They take off their coat of religion, put it in the closet until next Sunday." [52:59] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "You have to do it because you want to. It's something that you want to do. Notice what Mary said. Let it be according to thy word. There was an obedience there. But not only was there an obedience, there was an expectation. I want his will to be done. Man, when his will's done, we're going to have the Messiah. If God has his way, God's going to deliver all of Israel. She had an expectation there. When you begin to get right with God, there is expectation." [59:49] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "You have to get to a place that you say yes to God, and you really want God to do something in your life. Not that it's become grudging. I don't want God to have to do something because if I don't, if he doesn't do this, I'm getting ready to go to jail. I don't want to have to, I got to come down and say, if you don't do this, you're going to be broke. You have to say yes to God just because you want a change in your life." [59:49] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "You have to open up yourself to the blessings of God. Can somebody say amen this morning? When you're walking, blessed path. When you're walking and living a blessed life, there's so many things that can happen for you. He will open up doors of opportunity over and over again, so that your mind may be blown. And all you can say is, look at God. Look at God." [51:29] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "You have to open up yourself to the blessings of God. Can somebody say amen this morning? When you're walking, blessed path. When you're walking and living a blessed life, there's so many things that can happen for you. He will open up doors of opportunity over and over again, so that your mind may be blown. And all you can say is, look at God. Look at God." [51:29] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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