Embrace the Process
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
{Jeremiah 1:5/NIV}
At the beginning of every new year, the spirit of new year's resolutions (“new year, new me”) fill the air and “#goals” are redefined. Some of those resolutions and goals derived from a desire to do better than the year before. Some are in attempt to reach the status of someone you follow on social media. Not to say that those are not inspiring reasons, but I would like to present a question. What if your goal was to intentionally live on purpose; according to God's will for your life?
In regards to your goals, you may feel that you lack the confidence, resources, support, etc. You get caught up in the routine of each day and as time quickly slips away, you find that you haven't accomplished anything. You may ask yourself, "What if I mess this up?", or say the familiar line, " I'm not qualified to do this!"
All of the above could be legitimate, but lets take it a step further. Truth be told, one reason we don't reach our goals or follow through with our resolutions is because we fail to commit to the process. This is the same when it comes to following through with what God has called us to do.
Process according to Merriam-Webster's Dictionary is:
(a) : a natural phenomenon marked by gradual changes that lead toward a particular result; the process of growth
(b) : a continuing natural or biological activity or function; such life processes as breathing
(c) : a series of actions or operations conducing to an end
The Process:
Is necessary for growth (Romans 5:4)
Develops strength, endurance, character, and wisdom
Requires change (Genesis 12:1-9)
Stepping out of what is comfortable and familiar
Requires actions (Luke 11:28)
Faith and obedience
Is continuous (Ecclesiastes 9:11)
Until the end
Has purpose (John 11:1-4)
It's not about you)
Let's flash back to Jeremiah's story. God set Jeremiah apart to perform a special task. He was appointed as a prophet to the nation of Judah. He was to warn of impending destruction due to their disobedience, and petition them to turn their hearts back to God. His ministry extended to the nations. His story illustrates that God will choose individuals for specific tasks and will willingly extend His authority to the people He calls [NLT Illustrated Study Bible]. It is also illustrated that the task may be difficult but will have great purpose.
We may have goals and resolutions that we have set for 2018, but what has God called you to do? This may be a question that some cannot answer in this moment and for some, you can. What ever category you fall in, I encourage you to seek God for direction on your next step.
When God wants to get us to the next level of who he has called us to be, he starts with change and He will give an instruction that will go outside of our norm. We tend to not accept the process when it interrupts our familiar way of living or thinking. You may perceive it to be punishment or a lack of love from God. I assure you, whatever God calls you to do has great purpose. The reward is greater than you could ever imagine.
Something to ponder:
What has God called you to do?
Something to know:
He will give you the strategy
He will provide the resources
It won't be popular
It won't be easy
Prayer:
Father thank you for your eternal love and sufficient grace. Today, I submit my will to you. I choose to pick up my cross and follow as you lead. Help me to see the greater purpose for my life and give me the courage to endure the process. My life is not my own, Lord have your way. Let your goodness and mercy prevail in new ways in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
