In what ways can we ensure we don't reject God's purpose for us? Setting the Scene “ But the Pharisees and experts in the Law rejected God’s purpose for themselves, because they had not been baptized by John.” – Luke 7:30 They missed the very plan God had crafted for them. How do we make sure we don’t slip into the same tragedy? Recognize God’s Purpose • God’s purpose is never vague: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we should walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:10 • His design is always for our good and His glory (Jeremiah 29:11; Romans 8:28). Ways to Embrace, Not Reject, God’s Purpose 1. Stay Humble and Repentant • John’s baptism called for repentance (Luke 3:3). Those who refused humility shut themselves off from God’s plan. • “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” – James 4:6 2. Obey the Light You Already Have • “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” – James 1:22 • Light obeyed brings more light (Psalm 119:105). Light resisted dims the heart (Romans 1:21). 3. Remain Sensitive to the Holy Spirit • “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” – Hebrews 3:7-8 • Continual sensitivity keeps us aligned with God’s daily direction (Galatians 5:25). 4. Cultivate Active Faith • “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” – Hebrews 11:6 • Faith steps forward even when the full blueprint isn’t visible (2 Corinthians 5:7). 5. Keep a Teachable Spirit • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5 • The Bereans “examined the Scriptures daily to see if these teachings were true.” – Acts 17:11 • A teachable heart welcomes correction and fresh insight. 6. Guard Against Religious Pride • The Pharisees knew Scripture yet missed its Savior (John 5:39-40). • Jesus warns: “They preach, but do not practice.” – Matthew 23:3 • Authentic devotion outpaces mere ritual. Practical Daily Steps • Begin each day surrendering your plans to God’s agenda (Psalm 143:10). • Spend unhurried time in Scripture; listen before you speak (Isaiah 50:4). • Confess sin quickly; keep short accounts with God (1 John 1:9). • Seek counsel from mature believers when decisions loom large (Proverbs 15:22). • Serve where needs are obvious; purpose often unfolds in simple obedience (Luke 16:10). • Thank God regularly; gratitude keeps the heart pliable (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Final Encouragement When we walk in humility, obedience, faith, and a teachable spirit, we position ourselves to embrace—never reject—the gracious purpose God has crafted for us. |
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