Does God really have a purpose for my life?
By Sara Bailey
Everyone has a name: (insert yours here) _____________ ___________________.
So what is the big deal about a name? And why is an article about God starting with yours? Answer: names hold so much power.
I fully admit that I have answered to many names thus far in my life: some have been great terms of endearment given me by close family and friends, others have been titles or honors I’ve earned, and still others have been scarlet letters of shame, embarrassment, and disgrace meant to pierce and burden my heart. Though these names have all helped shaped me-both positively and negatively, it was not until I heard the Lord speak my name that I discovered purpose in my life and true understanding of who I am.
“I have called you by name; you are Mine!” Isaiah 43:1
I am not sure if I actually expected an answer the October night I cried out to God, but this was the verse He brought to mind. The questions: Why me, Lord? Why would you place these passions and abilities inside of me? Who am I to believe I have a purpose for You?
I believed God in a new way when I heard that answer from Isaiah. It told me that the things God had purposed for my life had nothing to do with how much I did but with who God said I was and who He had created me to be. God wanted to delight in me and help me fulfill His plans. I finally applied so many verses to my life.
Psalms 139: Before I was born, the Lord planned and purposed me. He cares for my life and destiny down to the tiniest details, and He knows everything about me. I am not a mistake or afterthought; I am purposed.
Ephesians 2:10: When I started my personal relationship with Jesus, I opened the door for Him to tell me of the plans He has for me. He wrote them down before I took my first breath so that I may live them. God writes the best stories.
Jeremiah 29:11-13: God knows the plans that He has for me. They are for my good. When I fully give Him my heart, He shows me what those plans are.
Since that night, my life has been different. I have begun to live believing God. He is the One who delights in doing more than what I can ask or imagine. Learning how to let God be God and do those things has been a challenge. However, learning how to be still and know that He is God has helped. Every time I hear Him speak my name I am reminded of His love for me.
He loves you too. He’s calling. Keep listening.
“___________ __________, I have called you by name; you are Mine.” ~God
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Do you believe there is something more to your life beyond your normal experience? That this "something more" is spiritual?