PURPOSE Part 2

The Greek word prothesis means a resolution of the mind, a plan, or intention, and purpose.

As we said in part 1 of this series - we all need purpose. We need something to aim for or otherwise what is the point?

One of the main purposes in Jesus coming to earth was to die for sinners and destroy the work of the devil. 1 John 3:8

When the days drew near for Him to be taken up, He set his face to go to Jerusalem Luke 9:51 This was to fulfil what was spoken by the prophet ‘I have set my face like flint’. Isaiah 50:7

Jesus was known, amongst other things, as the suffering servant. He received hostility and rejection, threats and finally beatings and scourging to the point that He was unrecognisable. Yet, in spite of this, He remained focused on doing the will of the Father. He was resolute in mind and intention. The plan of God before all ages had to be accomplished and He was going to do it.

The Apostle Paul, whom God called to take the Gospel to the Gentiles, was also resolute in spite of much opposition.

“I know in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me”. Acts 20:23

“While we were staying for many days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. And coming to us, he took Paul’s belt and bound his own feet and hands and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘This is how the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’” When we heard this, we and the people there urged him not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be imprisoned but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” And since he would not be persuaded, we ceased and said, “Let the will of the Lord be done.” Acts 21:10-14

Again, like His Lord he wanted to fulfil God’s purpose for his life and even die in the process if need be.

We may not all have the same calling, but the question that begs for all of us, especially for those of us who live in the relatively comfortable West is, are we resolute in mind, intention and purpose to follow Jesus whatever it takes.

Do we just want purpose that gives us an easy ride? One that requires nothing of us but in reality is all about us?

As I have discovered, when really tough times come, that is when the rubber really hits the road. Am I still going to follow Jesus? and seek His will and purpose for my life however hard that may be? I have personally found that when we truly put Jesus first then our lives are truly purposeful even in the midst of deep suffering. Jesus clearly experienced this, as did Paul.

Unfortunately, many who are becoming Christians today are not taught to count the cost. It costs dearly to follow Jesus.

Jesus illustrates this powerfully when talking about the cost of discipleship.

“For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying, ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish.” Luke 14:28-30

We are called to glorify God and finish the race. That’s our ultimate purpose, to finish what God has started and do His will in the process.

Can we purpose in our hearts to glorify God in the good times but also and especially in the bad times? When it seems all hell has been let loose, our purpose is to put God on display.

Can we do that when we’re facing divorce or facing ill health or are in a financial crisis? When in the thick of it, it can be extremely difficult, nigh on impossible. Even Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane found it too much to bear asking for the cup of suffering to pass. But He knew His purpose was to do the will of His Father and followed through with the mission.

Prayer: Dear Lord, when our struggles and trials become too much, may we know ultimately that we still have a purpose in this life. Help us to glorify You and run this race that You have set before us. Amen