We’re at our best when we’re living from the inside out. By that, I mean living on purpose in our pursuits rather than letting the world decide for us.
It’s not easy, is it? You and I are constantly being bombarded with demands on our time, our attentions, and our intentions. If our electronic devices aren’t tugging at us, our calendars are; and if not our calendars, then commercials and ads; and if not those, it’s the people we’re with every day who need or want something from us.
Not all of these requests are bad. In fact, any number of them may be worthwhile. Nevertheless, we owe it to God and ourselves to figure out who we are so that we can say yes — and no — for maximum impact.
Our primary purpose as people of faith is to glorify God.
And our secondary priorities, as I call them, are all the ways we get to glorify God. You may be running your own business, working for somebody else and pursuing a side hustle, volunteering in your community, putting in lots of hours at your church, or serving as the CEO of your household. In every situation, let your God-given purpose and priorities be your guide. And invite God to partner with you in these pursuits. He is ready, willing, and able to empower you for every good work He has purposed in you.
I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. — Ephesians 3:16-17
PRAYER
Of all the demands that will come my way today, God, please show me which ones You want me to respond to and which ones to turn down. I’m excited to be partnering with You in the adventure we’re on!
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Healing Rain
Ugh, those extra-busy seasons of life... I enjoy being as productive as the next person, but I don’t miss the mega-packed months-in-succession where there’s no breathing room.
You’ve lived it, I know. Functioning on caffeine and adrenaline. Putting out fires. Doing lots of good for others. Juggling work and home and church commitments. All the while you’re running dry. Or in my case, stagnating.
Logic says, the constant motion should keep our internal waters fed and our creativity flowing. Experience shows, those are the seasons that I’m most likely to turn stagnant spiritually and otherwise.
The last time this happened to me, I decided to ask one thing of the Lord in place of a New Year’s resolution. My prayer was,
“God, please help me grow.”
I had to double down on my purpose, say no to some things, and get time away with my family and with God. Slowly but surely, the muck drained off. God’s restoring rain soaked in. And the Holy Spirit turned up new ground in my heart, bringing back my joy.
I don’t know what invigorating change the Holy Spirit may be inviting you to right now, but God is absolutely with you in that pursuit. Is it to repentance and a relationship with Jesus as your Savior? A fresh wind of faith or a greater passion for God? Is there a place in your heart that you’ve left untouched due to shame or disappointment or some hurt? Could you use some healing rain there today?
In Isaiah 43:19, the Lord says,
Watch closely: I am preparing something new; it’s happening now, even as I speak, and you’re about to see it. I am preparing a way through the desert; waters will flow where there had been none. — The Voice
Whatever growth you’re seeking, run your heart’s desire by Him so the two of you can work out a simple plan of action. Once you have that, do it — little by little, day by day.
Things are about to change. Do you see it coming? Healing rain is on its way.
Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love; break up your fallow ground, for it is the time to seek the Lord, that He may come and rain righteousness upon you. — Hosea 10:12 ESV
PRAYER
I’m watching closely, praying for Your refreshing, God. Send relief. Wash over me, restoring my joy.
Watch the Video
Excerpted with permission from 100 Days of Joy and Strength by Candace Cameron Bure, copyright Candace Cameron Bure.
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Your Turn
Are you in the middle of a demanding season? Are you walking in your God-given purpose? Ask Him today to show you which things you need to be doing and which things you can say no to. And, hold on for healing rain because it’s coming! ~ Devotionals Daily