WHY AM I HERE?
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.
Romans 8:28 (NLT)
Have you ever helped your friends move?—pickup trucks, packing boxes, free pizza and lots of sweat, blood and tears! I know that when I've helped friends move, it felt chaotic. I remember lots of people, a lot of talking, a lot of movement, and a lot of stuff. I would often ask myself, Why am I here? I wanted to help, but I wasn't sure whether I should be helping pack or taking boxes to the truck. Maybe I should offer emotional support and tell them they’re doing a good job! Usually, the chaos would settle down when I asked the person I was helping move, What do you need me to do?
Have you recently asked God that question? Hey God, why am I here, and what do you want me to do? Sometimes we end up where we are because of our choices. Sometimes it’s because of others’ choices. Sometimes we get stuck focusing on our circumstances and become blind to God’s bigger purpose and plan for our lives. Your circumstances don’t have to determine your future path. God has a plan for you. God has a purpose for you. Your circumstances may be chaotic, confusing or crazy. Don’t shy away if that’s true. Just don’t accept that your circumstances will determine the result.
Ask God for guidance. Grab on to Him and let Him have the last word. Celebrate that He has a purpose and a plan for you!
APPLICATION: Write down some difficult circumstances that are currently happening. Next, write down why they’re challenging for you. Next, pray to God about those situations, asking for His help. Finally, observe and note how God is working in your life.
PRAYER: Father, thank You for Your purpose and plan for my life. As I navigate circumstances, please strengthen me to walk the path You have set for me. Help me keep my focus on You and You alone. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?