Live Purposefully and Intentionally

Life often feels like circumstances control us; creating an atmosphere of being along for the ride and reacting to what gets thrown our way. Do you ever feel that way? We can prepare for unexpected events. We should care for ourselves and our loved ones to protect as much as possible. We should save and anticipate unexpected expenses.

There is much we can do; however, it is impossible to prepare for or control every eventuality that comes our way. While it is true that a lot of what happens is beyond our control; one thing we can control is our response to what happens.

We can live intentionally. Instead of reacting to life’s circumstances, what if we lived with purpose, focusing on what God has called us to do? Years ago, I read a book (I wish I could remember the title) that reminded me that I need to live with that intentionality. The book provided different samples of what a purposeful life statement looked like. I borrowed snippets of several of the examples to create one that resonated with me and the way I wanted my life to count.

On days when life feels like I’m going through the motions, I pull out this statement and remind myself of how I want to live with purpose; how I want to be remembered after I am gone. I pray God uses me to brighten the lives of those around me, encouraging them and sharing the love of Christ.

Our top priority is seeking God’s direction for our lives and then committing our ways to Him. First, we seek His direction. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33). Then, as seen in Proverbs 16:3, we commit our ways to Him. “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”

When my life is over and I stand before my Heavenly Father, I want to hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.” (Matthew 25:23). For me to hear those precious words, I must live with intentionality and purpose now.

I’ll share with you my life statement in hopes that it will provide a launching pad for you to create your own. Each person’s will be unique as we all have different responsibilities to serve His kingdom. I encourage you to pray and ask God to help you write your own life statement and live it, beginning today.

I desire to live my life purposefully, regularly reviewing and praying over my purpose in life, loving God intensely, cherishing and inspiring my husband, praying for and keeping connected spiritually with my children and their families, loving others and seeking to bring encouragement to their lives.

I desire to live faithfully, believing God for what I cannot see, standing on the promises of God’s Word, trusting God to do in my loved one’s life what I cannot do.

I desire to live creatively, embracing beauty, warmth and encouragement in my home, in my work, in my writing and in my spiritual walk, allowing God to push me out of my comfort zone, being sensitive and obedient to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

I want to live paradoxically, going against my selfish nature, against our culture, giving a little bit more than I feel like giving, going the second mile, being like Jesus.