Embracing Purpose: A Journey of Redemption and Faith

Summary

In reflecting on my journey, I am reminded of the transformative power of purpose and calling. My story began with a court order in 2011, which led me to a program that offered an alternative to prison. This was a pivotal moment filled with fear and anxiety, as I was given one chance to complete it successfully. From a young age, I felt a calling to teach and lead, but those desires were overshadowed by addiction. My struggle with substance abuse began at a young age, leading to homelessness and estrangement from my family. The turning point came when my family, in an act of tough love, refused to enable my addiction any longer, urging me to seek help.

At the refuge ranch, I encountered the teachings of Dr. Tony Evans, which reignited my sense of purpose. His series, "Called for a Purpose," challenged me to consider my calling and why I am here. This revelation was life-changing, as it helped me understand that I was meant to live a life of purpose, not just survival. Over the past 11 years, I have embraced this calling, becoming a teacher and facilitator, sharing the same lessons that once transformed me.

Today, I am proud of the life I have built. I am a devoted mother and wife, and I find joy in the everyday moments with my family. Teaching the discipleship class and facilitating women's events allows me to give back and help others find their purpose. Dr. Evans' quote, "Faith is acting like God is telling the truth," resonates deeply with me. It reminds me to walk in obedience, step by step, trusting that it is never too late to change. For anyone struggling, know that redemption is possible, and you are not too far gone.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Purpose: Understanding one's calling can transform a life from mere existence to purposeful living. When we align our actions with our divine purpose, we find fulfillment and direction. [02:57]

2. Redemption and Second Chances: No matter how far one has fallen, it is never too late to seek redemption. The journey to recovery and restoration begins with a single step towards change. [05:36]

3. Faith in Action: True faith requires us to act as if God's promises are true, even when circumstances suggest otherwise. This active faith propels us forward in our spiritual journey. [05:02]

4. The Role of Community: Support from others, whether through tough love or encouragement, plays a crucial role in personal transformation. Community can provide the strength needed to overcome challenges. [02:09]

5. Living with Gratitude: Embracing gratitude for the small, everyday moments can lead to a fulfilling life. Recognizing and appreciating these moments helps us stay grounded and content. [04:17]

Youtube Chapters:

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:23] - A Pivotal Moment
[01:01] - Early Struggles
[01:30] - Family Estrangement
[02:09] - Seeking Help
[02:30] - Encountering Dr. Evans
[02:57] - Discovering Purpose
[03:39] - Embracing the Calling
[03:58] - Family and Fulfillment
[04:35] - Teaching and Giving Back
[05:02] - Faith in Action
[05:36] - Redemption is Possible
[06:00] - Closing Reflections

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
1. Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
2. Romans 8:28 - "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
3. Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Observation Questions:
1. What was the pivotal moment in the speaker's life that led to a significant change, and how did it impact their journey? [00:23]
2. How did the speaker's family play a role in their journey towards recovery and transformation? [01:58]
3. What role did Dr. Tony Evans' teachings play in the speaker's understanding of their purpose and calling? [02:30]
4. How does the speaker describe their current life and the fulfillment they find in their roles as a mother, wife, and teacher? [03:58]

Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of having a divine purpose, as mentioned in Jeremiah 29:11, relate to the speaker's journey from addiction to teaching and leading?
2. In what ways does Romans 8:28 reflect the speaker's belief that their past struggles were used for good in their life? [05:02]
3. How does the speaker's story illustrate the idea in Ephesians 2:10 that we are created for good works prepared by God?
4. What does the speaker's journey teach us about the importance of community and support in personal transformation? [02:09]

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt a strong sense of purpose or calling. How did it influence your actions and decisions?
2. The speaker's family used tough love to encourage change. How can you balance love and boundaries in your relationships to support others effectively? [01:58]
3. Dr. Evans' quote, "Faith is acting like God is telling the truth," challenges us to live out our faith actively. What is one area in your life where you can act more in line with God's promises? [05:02]
4. The speaker found fulfillment in teaching and facilitating. What activities or roles bring you a sense of purpose and joy, and how can you incorporate more of them into your life?
5. The speaker emphasizes gratitude for everyday moments. What are some small moments in your daily life that you can start appreciating more?
6. Redemption and second chances are central themes in the speaker's story. Is there an area in your life where you need to seek or offer forgiveness and a fresh start? [05:36]
7. How can you be a supportive community member to someone who is struggling, similar to the support the speaker received at the refuge ranch? [02:09]

Devotional

Day 1: Discovering Your Divine Purpose
Understanding one's calling can transform a life from mere existence to purposeful living. When individuals align their actions with their divine purpose, they find fulfillment and direction. This transformation often begins with a moment of realization, where one recognizes that life is meant for more than just survival. Embracing a purpose-driven life involves seeking out what one is truly called to do and taking steps to live in accordance with that calling. It is a journey that requires introspection, courage, and a willingness to change. [02:57]

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you feel a sense of calling or purpose? How can you take a step today to align your actions with this purpose?

Day 2: Embracing Redemption and Second Chances
No matter how far one has fallen, it is never too late to seek redemption. The journey to recovery and restoration begins with a single step towards change. This process often involves acknowledging past mistakes, seeking forgiveness, and making a conscious decision to move forward. Redemption is not just about personal transformation but also about the impact it has on others. By embracing second chances, individuals can inspire those around them to believe in the possibility of change and renewal. [05:36]

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17, ESV)

Reflection: Is there a past mistake or regret that you need to let go of? How can you take a step towards embracing the new life that God offers you today?

Day 3: Living Out Faith in Action
True faith requires us to act as if God's promises are true, even when circumstances suggest otherwise. This active faith propels individuals forward in their spiritual journey, encouraging them to trust in God's plan and timing. Living out faith in action involves making decisions based on belief rather than fear, and choosing to follow God's guidance even when the path is unclear. It is a daily commitment to walk in obedience and trust, knowing that God is faithful to fulfill His promises. [05:02]

"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." (James 1:22, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to act on your faith today? How can you demonstrate your trust in God's promises through your actions?

Day 4: The Strength of Community Support
Support from others, whether through tough love or encouragement, plays a crucial role in personal transformation. Community can provide the strength needed to overcome challenges and offer a sense of belonging and accountability. Being part of a supportive community means both giving and receiving help, and recognizing the value of shared experiences. It is through these connections that individuals find the courage to face difficulties and the motivation to pursue their goals. [02:09]

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)

Reflection: Who in your community can you reach out to for support or encouragement today? How can you also be a source of strength for someone else in need?

Day 5: Cultivating a Life of Gratitude
Embracing gratitude for the small, everyday moments can lead to a fulfilling life. Recognizing and appreciating these moments helps individuals stay grounded and content, fostering a sense of peace and joy. Gratitude shifts the focus from what is lacking to what is present, allowing individuals to see the abundance in their lives. By cultivating a habit of thankfulness, individuals can experience a deeper connection with God and others, and find joy in the simple pleasures of life. [04:17]

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, ESV)

Reflection: What is one small thing you can be grateful for today? How can you make gratitude a daily practice in your life?

Quotes

I was core ordered to this program in lieu of prison, which meant I had one chance to complete it. I couldn't get kicked out, so there was just a lot of fear and anxiety, and mostly just what was I going to see when reality really set in. From a young age, I always felt called to be a teacher. [00:00:23]

My first experience ever drinking or using any drugs came at a party I would say around age 13. I had begun using a little bit harder of drugs maybe 18 or 19. By the time I hit 26 or 27, I was homeless. My family and I are very close, and for years after I graduated high school, I don't think they knew the extent of my drug use. [00:01:01]

I remember going to their house one day, and they shut the garage door. They wouldn't even let me in their garage just because of all the things I had stolen and ways I had hurt them. They shut the garage door, she met me in the driveway, she handed me like five dollars, and she said don't call me and don't come back unless you want help. [00:01:30]

I came to the refuge ranch in September of 2011 from jail. I first encountered Tony Evans at the end of my program. I was in the face called discipleship, and during that class, the founder and his wife would meet with me, and they handed me a CD series called "Called for a Purpose," and they told me just to go back to my room and listen to it. [00:02:09]

I'll never forget putting on that first CD and listening to the concept of your calling raising the question, why am I here? Far too many of us are living lives like the flicker of a candle rather than the blazing of the new days. It's a question of calling. Once you have that, you are now alive. [00:02:57]

It's been over 11 years since I went through the program and since I was first introduced to Dr. Evans, and I believe that there was a calling on my life. I really reflect on my family. Some days are louder and more difficult than others, but I'm really proud every morning when I pick up their backpacks and make their lunches. [00:03:39]

I lay my head down on my pillow at night. I'm proud of who I am. So today in my life, you know I was granted the opportunity to teach that very discipleship class years later, and I incorporated Dr. Evans' study. I teach Bible class now at the refuge ranch every Wednesday morning. I also facilitate women's events here at Dunklin. [00:03:58]

I think of Dr. Evans' quote often: "Faith is acting like God is telling the truth." Acting, I just have to act, walk in obedience step after step, and I look back over the past 11 years, and I'm blown away. It was not too late. I was not too far gone. [00:05:02]

To anyone that's out there, whether or not you may be struggling with some sin or hole in your life, it is not too late. [00:05:36]

Embracing Purpose: A Journey of Redemption and Faith

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Embracing Purpose: A Journey of Redemption and Faith