Our One Thing
What am I supposed to do with my life?
Like every other young person or college student, this question keeps rolling around in my mind. The future is difficult because we can’t see what it looks like from here. We often paint a picture of what we want or hope for our future to be like, but God has a way of grabbing a bigger brush to create His own work of art.
Although not knowing the future can be half the fun (and anxiety), we still need to plan and make decisions. We must work, go to school, or pursue a dream/goal. Everyone is different, and God designed us all with unique talents and gifts.
But what does this mean for our lives? How are we supposed to make the most of our gifts? What if we don’t even know what those gifts are?
Everyone is searching for their purpose. The one thing that will make life worth living. If you are a Christian, then you don’t need to look for your purpose–your purpose is God. Jesus is your one thing. The Gospel is your purpose.
In fact, the Bible gives us clear instructions on the one call to all of our lives.
And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen (Matthew 28:18-20 NKJV).
This is our calling–the Great Commission. Yes, you’ve probably already read this verse several times, and maybe you think it only applies to some full-time missionary in a third world country.However, this command from our Lord and Savior is for all of us! No matter where we go, whether it be abroad or in our own community, we are called to spread the love of Jesus and make His name famous.
The rest of our lives is all secondary to this commandment. There are many ways and places to take the Gospel. God can take any life plan or current situation and use it for His glory.
A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps (Psalm 16:9 NKJV).
So if you’re like me and aren’t 100% sure of your goals or decisions–don’t let fear trap you. Pray and ask God, but also trust that no matter what you do in life, God can shine through it. He can use your life as an opportunity to spread the Gospel.
Now this doesn’t mean to just ignore God if he’s calling you to do something, and you’re just scared or hesitant. If you know He is calling you to do something, be obedient!
What I want you to remember is that you matter. Everyone has a purpose. Even if you feel insignificant, believe me you’re not. God loves you and created you for a bright future overflowing with purpose, hope, and love. Let this be the one thing that drives you as you proclaim His name.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV).
Thanks for reading! Please feel free to comment and share. I love hearing from you 🙂
8 Comments
Elihu
That’s right! Pray and pray some more. Ask for His guidance in every decision. Write down your options and pray over them daily. The Lord will lead if you let Him.
Fearfully Wonderfully Me
Yes, thank you!
didiscripts
Great reminder Emily… you know this post totally brought a memory to the fore…I work in a heavy machinery type environment where everyone is accustomed to the fast paced…little or no interaction type environment… But guess what, someone said to me… You have a great smile…whenever I see you, I feel a sense of hope in this life. To say that I was amazed is being curt..our paths barely cross…I can count how many times I have said a word to this fellow…but the funniest part is this-I’ve been going through such tough times sometimes I feel as though people can tell…But in the midst of praise him, God is using my broken emotion to minister hope to another …
”God can take any life plan or current situation and use it for His glory”
Fearfully Wonderfully Me
Amen! I’m so glad that person could see the light of Jesus shine through you. Thanks for commenting 🙂
Dainty M
Wonderful post Emily! Just today I had scribbled out some questions in a bid to rack my mind on what my purpose was. This just came as an answer to my questions. I like the part where you said God can shine through whatever we find ourselves doing. This is really assuring. Thanks for pointing us back to the great commission! Thank you for sharing! 🙂
Fearfully Wonderfully Me
You’re very welcome M! That makes my heart happy, as your comment is lighting up my own purpose 🙂 what a wonderful feeling it is to share God with others!
Courtney
Great post Emily! I needed to hear that! Lately the future has been heavily on my mind, but that was a good reminder to trust God! 😃
Fearfully Wonderfully Me
Thanks, it has been for me as well. Glad I could help 🙂