Plan Your Life Around God's Will . . .

In the meantime His disciples urged Him, saying, "Rabbi, eat." But He said to them, "I have food to eat of which you do not know." Therefore the disciples said to one another, "Has anyone brought Him anything to eat?" Jesus said to them, "My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work." (John 4:31-34 NKJ)

Invariably an interviewer will ask: "When did you know that you were going to do what you are doing today?" And the person being interviewed will reply, "I've always known, even as child."

It's interesting to me that some catch hold of their purpose early in life, while others gradually recognize it more slowly, as life progresses. And still the Master moves us into the stream of his will for our lives.

I guess I have always known what I wanted to do with my life. Yet, in reminiscent review, the thread of purpose and direction is only now becoming clear to me. Since I was a small boy -- as far back as five years old -- I have wanted "to be a preacher."

Suddenly the blast of realization gets my full attention. God's will and purpose has been driving me, even in contrasting but cooperative projects. Diverse cultures and congregations have kept my energy fresh by demanding different styles of pastoral ministry. Different types of missions and ministry projects continue to challenge my best efforts to achieve God's will and purpose.

And thinking about the next season of my life, I wonder: what he will do with me? Where will he lead me? Of course, the answers are always driven by his will and purpose for me and my life. I simply want to stay fresh in his anointing and energized by his Spirit. I sincerely want to be the best I can be in order to achieve all of his will and purpose assigned to me. Pursuing that goal is the food that nourishes my soul.

Dear Father, thank you for giving me the purpose to achieve your will for my life. Empower me with your Spirit to boldly go where you direct and minister faithfully. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN

What drives your life? What interests you? What energizes you?