Renewed Purpose: God's Glory

John 9:3 (KJV) Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.

STOP THINKING IT'S ABOUT YOU!  Everytime something goes wrong (or right) in our lives, we tend to try to figure out what we did or didn't do to bring about the results.  Everything that happens to you isn't always about you!  I encourage you in the new year to shift your focus from yourself to God's purpose for your life.

God has a special purpose for you in this earth, and the outcome is for His glory.  If we believe that all things work together for our good (because we love the Lord and are called according to His purpose), then we must also believe that God should get the glory out of every situation.  No matter what you are facing or will face in the coming year, give God glory in all of it.  The transformation of our thinking is what will bring glory to God.  No longer "Poor me!", but "God's gonna get the glory out of this!".

When we start looking for God's glory in the midst of our storms, trials, and circumstances, then we will find it.  Our purpose is God's glory.  There are tasks that God has for you to do while you're here, but don't ever forget that everything you do should be for His glory.  Stop trying to be recognized, stop seeking fortune, and please stop thinking you will gain the approval of people.  I expect to make some unpopular decisions in the new year because I have decided to follow only God's direction for my life.  Do you know what else I expect?  I expect God to get the glory!  HAPPY NEW YEAR!

It Could Have Been Me

I am taking this time to reflect on how blessed I really am. Sure, there are things I would like to be different. Of course, I could be in better financial position, have a better car, be a better homemaker, have a better job, live in a better house,... I could go on and on. Things could always be better, but I must remember they could also be so much worse.

I could have no money no car, no job, and no home. There are plenty of people who would love to be in my shoes today. I think about the people I met in the homeless shelter last week, and I weep for myself. Why? Because they had a better perspective on their situation than I have on mine. They knew that other people were outside in the cold trying to find a warm place to sleep. They were grateful for a roof over their heads and warm beds; they had hope for a better tomorrow. They, like Paul, learned to be content in whatever condition they find themselves. It could have been me in that shelter, and I thank God all the more for His provision. It's been nothing but God's grace and mercy that have gotten me this far.

Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13 NASB)