I’ve never been one to make New Year Resolutions. I do, however, reflect on the year past and the year ahead. While I look forward to the newness of the upcoming year, a part of me is saddened at the letting go of the old. I’ve decided instead of a resolution, I’ll focus on one word this year – purposeful.
I looked up the meaning of the word, in Webster’s online dictionary, and found:
1. having a purpose: as
a. Meaningful
b. Intentional
2. full of determination
Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” God intentionally sent Jesus to die purposefully on the Cross for us. This act of love is more meaningful to the lives of those who believe this than anything else.
So now I ask myself, how can I apply this one word to my life in a way that will bring honor and glory to Him? Have I been living a purposeful life? Can I add value to someone else’s life by living a more purposeful life myself? This year I hope to help make a difference for myself and others.
How can I do this? I can surprise someone with dinner, deliver baked goods to an unsuspecting person, or babysit for friends. The opportunities are endless. It’s a wonderful feeling to be blessed and to be a blessing to others. There have been many times when my family received an unexpected blessing – some big and some small. On the other hand, there have been opportunities for our family to be a blessing to others. Oh, what great joy that can be!
When we help others we can add joy to their lives and our own. We need to be careful not to get so caught up in our everyday hustle and bustle that we become robbed of our joys. I am a firm believer that personal joy can come from helping others. If we’re lacking joy in our lives we may be lacking purpose.
I hope each of you know the kind of joy I’m talking about, whether it’s joy from receiving or joy from giving. I would love to hear your ideas on how to be a blessing to others. The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever. -Ps. 138:8
I encourage us all to go out and live on purpose.
I love this Kim! Fits in with the cry of my heart too!! :)
I was just telling someone the other day that I am my happiest when I am doing for others. A call, a note, a lunch and a prayer. The Lord has blessed my family so much. I just want to give back. The Lord is so loving and forgiving. I had an emptiness in my heart for so long. Didn’t know what was wrong and then I found the Lord. I am so thankful to have a relationship with Him. Thank you God!
Martha, I agree. It is so fulfilling to do for others. We have much to be thankful for!