Have you wondered, "What is my purpose in life?"
For me, I asked that question. I looked for the answer in many places and in many ways. None were satisfying, some were hurtful.
I went to grade school (1-8) at a Catholic school near my home in
Waukesha Wisconsin. My mother (Lord bless her) was raised Catholic in
her first generation immigrant family. I remember talking to God as a
youngster in church, staring at Jesus on the cross. I believed in him
as a 10 year old does. I went to confessional and the whole nine
yards. But I never knew what it meant to have a personal relationship
with Jesus. By 7th and 8th grade I fell away from the church and
followed the world's view.
After so many years looking to the world for purpose and not finding it, I turned back to God.
He answered!
I listened!
It is difficult to explain the difference when you are reborn. It
can't be fully explained with words. But my life before turning
completely to the Lord is best described:
"For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave
thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish
hearts were darkened." Romans 1:21
Now I have peace in my heart, and mind. Of course I struggle and
sometimes let the burdens of the world squeeze my brain. But now it
seems best described:
"For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is
found.' So they began to celebrate." Luke 15:11-32
As I read and re-read the Bible, it is clear most of His word doesn't
talk about our earthly life. It discusses, encourages, and defines the
spiritual world. When I read it from spirit, it becomes clear. When I
don't understand, it usually means I'm living in myself.
Accepting the Bible as truth is easier and easier. And now my purpose in life is clear.
To serve.
To serve - to honor my Lord Jesus Christ.
To serve - to give thanks for his saving grace.
To serve - to use my God given talents to help His kingdom on earth.
Looking back is a good way to thankfully repent, and also see how and
when the Lord touched my life (and me not seeing it at the time). For
example, it now seems heaven sent that my big play in the business
world was to build a company and call it Iserv ("e" omitted for
"coolness").
Now what - walk that narrow path.
Peace & Joy.
Jeff
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