Make the Most of Every Opportunity! — Wonder
It is unfathomable to me that the God of the universe placed each of us on this Earth for a purpose. He has given each of us unique personalities, gifts, and experiences. He wants to use these three things to make a difference in the lives of others. He works in all different places, times, and situations. You don’t have to be a pastor or work at a church to make a difference, you just have to be aware of the opportunities God places in your life and have the courage to act on them.
God will call you exactly where you are: home, work, or school. You may feel a gentle nudge to do something that you never would have thought about doing. Often you’ll never know how God used your act of obedience to touch someone else’s life. Throughout your days, he will lead you to do something—and if you choose to listen, it will truly make a difference in your life, and the lives of those around you.
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
God nudged me to start a second LifeGroup during the covid shutdown. I felt called to do this because so many people were fearful, anxious, and discouraged. I planned on the group being very light. I thought we could discuss God’s sense of humor, encourage each other to find the joy of the Lord in all situations, and pray together. The name “Happy Hour” came to me, and I thought it would intrigue people to join. It must have worked because several people joined, even a woman from England! I don’t think most of us would have ever met otherwise.
God reminded me that the book of Philippians is known as the Book of Joy, so our group decided that was a great place to start. We focused on 2-4 verses at a time and had deep discussions about what we had read.
This group united during a difficult time, and we could only meet over Zoom. Many had other challenges in their lives besides covid: seriously ill family members, caring for aged parents, and the death of loved ones. We formed strong bonds of friendship and love for each other. Each member of our group has wondered how we would have made it through this incredibly tough and long season without each other.
The amazing thing about each of these women is that they all have different personalities, spiritual gifts, and life experiences, yet each woman wants to make a difference in each other’s lives. Each one of us is so different, yet we all fit together so beautifully.
I am overjoyed to tell you that after 20 months, the borders opened, and our member from England traveled to get baptized at CedarCreek, with her beloved friends in attendance. Almost every one of us was at that baptism, elated and praising God. What an amazing and beautiful day! And it all started as a nudge from God.
Ephesians 5:15-16 (NIV)
15 Be very careful, then, how you live–not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.
Questions:
What are your spiritual gifts? How are you using them? What is God prompting you to do?
Next Steps:
Ask God to help you see the plans that he has for your life and to recognize the opportunities to do good in the lives of those around you.
Complete GrowthTrack where you will create your purpose statement. Pray and ask God to help you to make a difference, and say yes to his promptings.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I am so grateful that you created me with a unique and special purpose. I am overwhelmed with your wondrous love and grace for me. Work through me, Jesus, to make a difference and point others to you. Help me to fulfill your purpose for my life. I love, adore, and praise you. Amen.
This post was written by Marsha Raymond. Marsha has been happily married to her husband, Jeff, for 30 years. They have two grown sassy and fearless daughters. She loves spending time with God, her family and friends, reading, riding bicycles, yoga and walking.
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