Purpose

I am reading Forgotten God, by Francis Chan, a book which challenges the church to dig deeper into their understanding of the Holy Spirit and His part in their lives. This morning I was reading chapter three and was struck by these truths:

"The Holy Spirit has His own desires and will. In 1 Corinthians we read that the gifts of the Spirit are empowered by One and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as He wills. This is an important reminder of Who is in control. Just as we don't get to choose which gifts we are given, we also don't get to choose what God intends for us and for the church. The Spirit has a plan for our lives, for each of us. And He has a plan for the church, including your individual church body and the worldwide body of Christ. If you're like me, you probably have a plan for your own life, for your church and maybe even for the larger body of Christ. That's why we all desperately need to pray as Christ did, not my will, but yours be done."

As many times as I've heard it said, I needed to hear it again: It is not about me. I am but a part of a larger plan that God has in place for His own purposes. My life is not my own, I cannot dream large enough to know how my life will be used in His kingdom. He only asks for my obedience, faith and trust in His plan. Again I am struck by the fact that God called us to California for a purpose. Yes it helps Dan's career, but I feel as though it's bigger than that. God is using us in His overall will for the worldwide Church. Our obedience to go has brought us closer to Him. My obedience to trust Him everyday brings me closer to Him.

The Holy Spirit will guide us to a church and a community to serve. His purposes are greater than my own. Someone will be brought closer to the Lord on account of our obedience to His will. That truth makes my heart glad and lifts my eyes to see that I am part of a greater plan in action, one that cannot be thwarted - of which I am grateful.