God's vision is a picture of the future that produces passion in your life. (Bill Hybels)
One discovery that revolutionized the world was the compass. It was a simple object that was invented to help people find their way. The compass allowed travelers, especially seafaring explorers, to navigate in unchartered waters. People could travel long distances safely through any weather conditions. God's vision and purpose for our lives can be our compass. It instructs what direction we need to go. A leader who's focused on Jesus Christ and tuned into his directives will be able to rely on God's prompting by the Holy Spirit to chart the course especially maneuvering through undiscovered territory.
Do you have a clear sense of God's purpose and vision for your life?
Life is constantly filled with opportunities to expand our borders and set sail for discovering new spectacular ports of call. However, a spiritual compass is necessary to keep us headed in the right God-honoring direction. God created us to be people of purpose and vision. God's vision and purpose help clarify and establish our priorities. They set standards of excellence, inspire expectation, motivate commitment, and maximize our productivity. His vision will produce passion, energy and kingdom-building results.
But, I'm struggling to find God's vision and purpose for my life.
In order to discover God's vision and purpose for your life, identify the area of your discontent. What frustrates you? What do you complain about most? What problems do you see in the world that make you say, "I can't stand it anymore!" God chooses to involve people in his kingdom-building activity through activating our holy discontent. God designed us to be people of purpose and to pursue causes for which we would exchange our lives. When we discover God's vision it will take hold of us in ways we may never have imagined.
Here is an exercise that may help you discover God's vision and purpose for your life:
1. See the need. Write a list of needs that touch your emotions. List actions you could take to explore this further.
2. Feel the need. Purposely open your heart and feel emotions that accompany it. Write down anything that comes to mind.
3. Embrace the burden. Pray. Allow the weight or heaviness to work within you.
4. Believe you can meet the need. Feel the sense of urgency & responsibility.
5. Take action. Set clear goals.
SMART: specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time targeted.
History is different and lives are changed as people seek out God's divine plan and leadership in their lives. Be encouraged. Seek God's directive for your life. Take action. Live your life with passion.
Prayer: Almighty God, thank you for designing us to be a people with purpose who can meet the needs of other people and needs of the world you so love by following your vision for our lives. Entrust us with compassion that we might find the courage to take action. Amen