Stick to the script

Image source: i-am-bored.com

Everyone knows there is a script we're supposed to follow.  There's a certain way we're supposed to do what we do.  It's what everyone else is doing.  No one wants to stick their head above the crowd.  If you do, it'll end up like the game above.  And besides, you don't want to be labeled as weird or a rebel.

But what would our world be like if everyone discovered their unique purpose - that thing they alone were created to accomplish?  What if we weren't so concerned about what others are thinking?  What if we chose to courageously live out our God-given mission?

God has made us what we are. In Christ Jesus, God made us to do good works, which God planned in advance for us to live our lives doing.
Ephesians 2: 10 NCV

God has created us for something significant.  He has a plan, and we fit into it.  It won't be easy.  As a matter of fact, it will stretch you beyond what you think possible.  But by stepping into that place you will sense God's pleasure in a way that others can't.  And besides, life isn't about you anyway.  God created us to live our lives for others. (Matthew 22:36-40)

If we're going to accomplish God's dream for our lives we're going to have to be willing to go off-script.  This is exactly what Jesus was accused of by the religious leaders of His day. (Mark 11:27-28)

So what is the script that you are expected to follow?  Do your relatives expect you to follow in your parents' footsteps.  Are your teachers are pushing you to pursue a certain career?  Do your friends think you already have enough children?  It could be any number of things.

Now let me ask some questions that are MUCH MORE important: Who are you created to be?  What are you created to do?  What is the unique gift God has chosen you to bring to the world?

God has invested talents and passions in you.  He will take these and add them to your experiences - even the bad ones (Genesis 50:20) - to bring a unique expression of His creativity and love to the world around you.

Have you been told that your dream is unachievable?  It doesn't matter what THEY say.  It matters what GOD and YOU say!

Yes, it will be risky.  Yes, it will be scary.  Yes, you may have to go it alone.  But it will be worth it!  And for what it's worth, you will find cheerleaders in the most unexpected places.  It doesn't matter if your mom or dad, your friends, teachers or coworkers believe in you or not.  God does!

PS. If you haven't yet discovered your purpose, this series of blogs will help you get started in the process.

Light-Filled Lives Series

Image source: Empowermoments.org

I wrote a series of blog posts a few years ago called Light-Filled Lives.  They were about how we can hear God's voice in a clearer way.  I think they are as true today as they were then.  Each one is a very quick read.  You can check them out here:

Light-filled lives (part 1)

Light-filled lives (part 2)

Light-filled lives (part 3)

Light-filled lives (part 4)

Light-filled lives (part 5)

When Life Doesn't Make Sense [mp3]

I had the privilege of speaking at my friend, Mike Burdick's church a week ago.  Mike and Christine have been our friends for a long time.  Although I had initially planned to teach on a different subject, my heart kept coming back to this one.  I think it will encourage you as it did me.

This message is a LOT longer than I usually give.  They did shorter music and announcements so that I could have extra time, and they encouraged me to speak longer than I usually do.

Click here to listen to the message.  You can also right click on the link and select "Save As..." to download the mp3.