THE purpose

I went to my Bible this morning for encouragement.  I was headed toward Philippians 4, but the pages opened to Hebrews 12 and these underlined verses...Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.  Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.  (verses 1-3)  I started writing in my journal and this is what showed up on the pages.  I hope it will encourage you like it did me.

I need to throw off everything that hinders and the sin that entangles.  What are those things for me? I'm sure there are more things that hinder and entangle me, but these are the things that came to mind this morning.

• comparison and feeling insignificant
• listening to lies from the enemy that I allow to make me feel insecure
• looking to people instead of Jesus
• being distracted by my to-do list
• taking things personally
• allowing my brain to think on things that are NOT true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8...I did get there!)
• withdrawing from God and from people because I fear being hurt or rejected

When I feel alone in the struggle of life, I need to remember that Jesus felt alone in His struggle too.  He even said, "My God, my God, why have You forsaken Me?"  I know in my head that God will never forsake me.  I need to believe it in my heart, say it, and live like it.  Deuteronomy 31:6 says, "Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will NEVER leave you nor forsake you."  It was true for Joshua and it is true for me too!

I have a race to run called life.  God has a purpose and a plan for my life (and yours too).  My race is unlike the race He has planned for anyone else.  The goal of the enemy is to make me give up, to make me stop, to make me quit before I reach the finish line.  My purpose is not just in reaching the finish line.  It is found all along the race course.  The journey of life is a significant part of the purpose.  

When God created people (you can read about it in Genesis), He had one purpose in mind.  That purpose was relationship.  He envisioned us being in relationship with Him and with each other.  My life should be about relationships...with God first, and then with other people.  Yes, heaven is the finish line, but the race is all about relationships!