Embracing Our Divine Purpose and Intrinsic Value
Summary
### Summary
Today, I had the honor of speaking to a group of passionate women, sharing a message that God sees, values, and wants to use each one of us. Reflecting on my own journey from feeling lost and unworthy to becoming a pastor, I emphasized the importance of recognizing our intrinsic value as women, created intricately by God. We explored the creation story in Genesis, where women were the apex of creation, and how our value and beauty are often the most attacked aspects of our identity. Yet, God has a special purpose for us, as illustrated by the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Mary, a young girl who felt unseen and unworthy, was chosen by God to bring His son into the world. Her story teaches us that God often uses those who feel overlooked and insignificant. The Holy Spirit empowers and completes the work God has started in us, and our role is to be willing vessels. We also looked at the relationship between Mary and Elizabeth, highlighting the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who believe in us and encourage our God-given dreams.
I shared personal anecdotes about my own calling and the challenges I faced, including societal expectations and self-doubt. Yet, through it all, God’s faithfulness and the support of a community of believers helped me step into my purpose. The message concluded with a call to action for the women to embrace their dreams, find their "Elizabeths"—those who will support and encourage them—and trust that God will accomplish His work in their lives.
### Key Takeaways
1. Intrinsic Value and Purpose: Women are the apex of God's creation, intricately designed and deeply valued. Despite societal attacks on our worth and beauty, God sees us as equals and has a special purpose for each of us. Our value is not diminished by our past mistakes or societal views. [02:29]
2. God Uses the Overlooked: Like Mary, who felt unseen and unworthy, God often chooses those who feel insignificant to fulfill His greatest plans. Our humility and willingness to serve make us prime candidates for God's work. The Holy Spirit empowers us to accomplish what God has placed in our hearts. [06:52]
3. Surround Yourself with Believers: The relationship between Mary and Elizabeth shows the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who believe in us and our God-given dreams. These relationships provide encouragement, validation, and a sense of community that is essential for our spiritual growth and the fulfillment of our purpose. [27:45]
4. God's Faithfulness: No matter how long it takes or how many mistakes we make, God is faithful to complete the work He has started in us. Our past does not disqualify us from God's plans. When we surrender to His will, He will activate our calling and provide the resources and support we need. [16:29]
5. Celebrate Each Other's Dreams: Instead of comparing ourselves to others, we should celebrate what God is doing in each other's lives. When we see someone else’s dream coming to fruition, it should inspire and encourage us. We are all part of the same kingdom, and each person's success contributes to the greater good. [30:02]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:14] - Finding Purpose in God's House
[02:29] - The Apex of Creation
[04:04] - Attacks on Our Value and Beauty
[05:26] - Redemption Through Women
[06:52] - God Sees and Values You
[08:25] - Mary's Calling and Humility
[09:46] - Overcoming Self-Doubt
[11:12] - Surrendering to God's Call
[13:36] - The Holy Spirit's Role
[15:00] - Trusting God's Plan
[16:29] - God's Faithfulness
[17:57] - Generational Encouragement
[19:26] - Identifying as a Servant of the Lord
[20:30] - Embracing Your Purpose
[22:17] - Facing Societal Challenges
[23:09] - Surrounding Yourself with Believers
[24:01] - Unexpected Callings
[25:01] - Being an Unexpected Surprise
[26:01] - Losing Friends for Your Calling
[27:45] - Finding Your Elizabeth
[28:26] - Encouraging Each Other
[29:17] - Connecting Through the Spirit
[30:02] - Celebrating Each Other's Dreams
[31:01] - Honoring Each Other's Anointing
[31:58] - Receiving from Each Other
[32:53] - Believing in God's Promises
[33:50] - Blessed Before Fulfillment
[35:29] - Awakening Dormant Dreams
[36:37] - God's Delight in Us
[37:31] - Jesus' Value for Women
[38:24] - Women in Jesus' Ministry
[39:18] - God's Purpose for You
[40:09] - Legacy of Faith
[40:57] - Embracing Motherhood as a Dream
[42:00] - Finding Your Elizabeth
[42:51] - God Sees and Values You
[43:42] - Prayer and Blessing
[44:28] - Rejoicing in God's Promises
[45:00] - Closing Remarks
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Genesis 2:22 - "Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man."
2. Luke 1:26-38 - The Annunciation to Mary by the angel Gabriel.
3. Luke 1:39-45 - Mary's visit to Elizabeth.
### Observation Questions
1. According to Genesis 2:22, how did God create woman, and what does this imply about her value and purpose? [02:29]
2. In Luke 1:26-38, how did Mary initially react to the angel Gabriel's message, and what does this reveal about her self-perception? [08:25]
3. What was Elizabeth's reaction when Mary visited her, and how did this encounter affirm both women's faith and purpose? (Luke 1:39-45) [27:45]
4. How does the sermon describe the relationship between Mary and Elizabeth, and why is it significant for us today? [27:45]
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does the creation of woman as described in Genesis 2:22 suggest about God's intention for women's roles and value in His creation? [02:29]
2. How does Mary's story in Luke 1:26-38 illustrate that God often chooses those who feel insignificant to fulfill His plans? [06:52]
3. Why is it important to surround ourselves with people who believe in us and our God-given dreams, as seen in the relationship between Mary and Elizabeth? [27:45]
4. How does the sermon emphasize God's faithfulness in completing the work He has started in us, despite our past mistakes or societal views? [16:29]
### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on Genesis 2:22, how do you perceive your intrinsic value and purpose as a woman created by God? How can this understanding change the way you view yourself and your role in God's plan? [02:29]
2. Like Mary, have you ever felt unworthy or overlooked? How did you respond to God's calling in your life, and what steps can you take to embrace His purpose for you more fully? [08:25]
3. Who are the "Elizabeths" in your life—those who believe in you and encourage your God-given dreams? How can you strengthen these relationships and also be an "Elizabeth" to someone else? [27:45]
4. The sermon highlights the importance of celebrating each other's dreams rather than comparing ourselves. How can you practice this in your community or small group? [30:02]
5. Think about a time when you doubted God's plan for your life due to past mistakes or societal expectations. How did you overcome these doubts, and what can you do to remind yourself of God's faithfulness? [16:29]
6. How can you actively seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment in fulfilling the dreams and purposes God has placed in your heart? [15:00]
7. What practical steps can you take this week to support and encourage another woman's God-given dreams, as Mary and Elizabeth did for each other? [27:45]
Devotional
### Day 1: Intrinsic Value and Purpose
Women are the apex of God's creation, intricately designed and deeply valued. Despite societal attacks on our worth and beauty, God sees us as equals and has a special purpose for each of us. Our value is not diminished by our past mistakes or societal views. God created women as the pinnacle of His creation, and this intrinsic value is something that cannot be taken away. The world may try to undermine our worth, but God’s view of us remains unchanged. He sees us as His masterpieces, created with a unique purpose and beauty that reflect His glory.
In Genesis, we see that women were created last, not as an afterthought, but as the crowning achievement of God's creation. This signifies the special place women hold in God's heart and plan. Our value is not based on what we do or how we look but on who we are in Christ. We are His beloved daughters, and He has a specific plan and purpose for each of us. Embrace this truth and let it shape your identity and actions. [02:29]
Bible Passage: "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." (Genesis 1:27, ESV)
Reflection: How can you remind yourself daily of your intrinsic value and purpose as a woman created by God?
### Day 2: God Uses the Overlooked
Like Mary, who felt unseen and unworthy, God often chooses those who feel insignificant to fulfill His greatest plans. Our humility and willingness to serve make us prime candidates for God's work. The Holy Spirit empowers us to accomplish what God has placed in our hearts. Mary, a young girl from a humble background, was chosen to bring the Savior into the world. Her story is a powerful reminder that God sees potential where the world sees insignificance.
God's criteria for choosing people are different from the world's. He looks at the heart and our willingness to be used by Him. When we feel overlooked or insignificant, we must remember that God has a special plan for us. He delights in using the humble and the willing to accomplish His purposes. Trust in His ability to work through you, no matter how small or insignificant you may feel. [06:52]
Bible Passage: "But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong." (1 Corinthians 1:27, ESV)
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you feel overlooked or insignificant? How can you offer these areas to God for His use?
### Day 3: Surround Yourself with Believers
The relationship between Mary and Elizabeth shows the importance of surrounding ourselves with people who believe in us and our God-given dreams. These relationships provide encouragement, validation, and a sense of community that is essential for our spiritual growth and the fulfillment of our purpose. Mary sought out Elizabeth, who was also experiencing a miraculous pregnancy, and their meeting was filled with mutual encouragement and joy.
Having a community of believers who support and uplift us is crucial. These relationships help us stay focused on God's promises and provide the strength we need to pursue our callings. Seek out your "Elizabeths"—those who will stand by you, pray for you, and encourage you in your journey. [27:45]
Bible Passage: "And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit." (Luke 1:41, ESV)
Reflection: Who are the "Elizabeths" in your life? How can you strengthen these relationships to support your spiritual growth and purpose?
### Day 4: God's Faithfulness
No matter how long it takes or how many mistakes we make, God is faithful to complete the work He has started in us. Our past does not disqualify us from God's plans. When we surrender to His will, He will activate our calling and provide the resources and support we need. God's faithfulness is a constant theme throughout the Bible. He never abandons His people, even when they falter or stray.
Our journey may be filled with challenges and setbacks, but God's faithfulness remains. He is committed to seeing His plans for us come to fruition. Trust in His timing and His ability to work all things for your good. Surrender your fears and doubts to Him, and watch as He faithfully guides you toward your purpose. [16:29]
Bible Passage: "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." (Philippians 1:6, ESV)
Reflection: What past mistakes or fears are holding you back from fully trusting in God's faithfulness? How can you surrender these to Him today?
### Day 5: Celebrate Each Other's Dreams
Instead of comparing ourselves to others, we should celebrate what God is doing in each other's lives. When we see someone else’s dream coming to fruition, it should inspire and encourage us. We are all part of the same kingdom, and each person's success contributes to the greater good. Comparison can be a thief of joy, but celebration fosters unity and encouragement.
When we celebrate each other's dreams, we acknowledge God's work in their lives and build a supportive community. This mindset shifts our focus from competition to collaboration, recognizing that we are all working towards the same goal—advancing God's kingdom. Let the success of others inspire you to pursue your own God-given dreams with renewed passion and faith. [30:02]
Bible Passage: "Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep." (Romans 12:15, ESV)
Reflection: How can you actively celebrate the dreams and successes of those around you? What steps can you take to foster a supportive and encouraging community?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "I wanted to encourage you today, if I had to title this message, it would be God sees you and he values you and he wants to use you. You see, the more I begin to study the word of God, the more I see the affection that God has for women. You see, in Genesis, we were the apex of creation. We made our way into the world as the final beauty of everything that God created." [02:29] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "He let woman be a part of the redemption story. So we have value to God and to his purpose and to the kingdom. And I love that he is so good at making us feel better when we think we've just messed everything up. He did that for me. And so today I want to look into the life of a young girl that was actually a part of fulfilling. One of God's greatest plan, and that's sending his only son into the world." [05:26] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "I believe that God's plan for us involves things that he's planting in us to give birth to. That there are dreams and desires and ideas that are inside of you that God wants to use. He wants to cultivate so that you can give birth to something amazing." [06:52] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "See, it's never been about what I've done. It's about what he's doing. And in my past, never disqualified him from his plans because he knew the plans for me from the beginning before I was formed in my mother's womb. And he knew that when I came to the place of discovering his heart, I would follow him for the rest of my life." [09:46] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "I believe that our confidence can be that whatever God has called us to, he is faithful to do it. We don't have to worry about getting everything right. We don't have to worry about getting everything lined up. All the logistics don't have to be there. The only thing we have to do is trust that if God said that it's going to happen, he will perform what he has said. He will accomplish his work. His word will be fulfilled in your life." [16:29] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "I had to have people that would speak into my life and tell me things about myself that I couldn't believe yet, things that I couldn't see, because all I could see was my past and all my mistakes and all my failures. But I had a few good friends that said, there's a preacher in you. I had a few good friends that said there's something about the way you teach the word of God that if he's going to use that." [01:14] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Sometimes you have to look at what God is doing in someone else's life to hold on to what he's told you. Sometimes you have to see what's happening in someone else's life because I, I find it interesting that by the time the angel comes, she'll be able to see Elizabeth is showing. She's showing. So there's now physical evidence for the promise that he's given her. And she has something to hold on to." [19:26] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Don't ruin your influence trying to get someone else's. Don't miss out on your blessing, coveting somebody else's. Because let me tell you. Only you can do what God asks you to do. And if you're trying to do somebody else's job, who's going to do yours? And if you're trying to be someone else, then how do you get to fulfill the purpose that God specifically designed you for?" [26:47] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "We have to keep ourselves in a place where we're willing to share what God is doing with the right people because you never know who you're encouraging. You never know if that person was on the brink of giving up altogether, but because they saw what God was doing in you, they kept going. You might be the person that keeps someone going." [28:26] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord. This is a very important part of the passage because basically she's saying, Even before it happens, you are blessed. Because God has given you a word that you can. Hold on to even before you see it manifest. You are blessed that God has given you something to give to the world." [33:50] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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