2014-07-04 - SHAPE

Introduction

Author's Note: This will be an ongoing series over several weeks, but I may take intermittent breaks from time to time. I will try to title all in this series with SHAPE in the name, though, in case you want to keep them together.

What on Earth am I here for?

Do any of you ever ask that question? Would any of you like to know the answer? If you do then I hope you will read along over the next several weeks as we discuss your SHAPE. This is an acronym that I believe came out of Rick Warren's church, as part of the Purpose-Driven Life movement, and I will borrow from their materials at times, but also will wander around "chasing squirrels" of my own. SHAPE simply stands for spiritual gifts, heart, abilities, personality and experience.

First and foremost, we were made to be courageous. Joshua repeatedly encouraged the Israelites to be courageous. Paul told Timothy that we were not given a spirit of fear or timidity - but of strength and courage. We are to courageously go into all the world, sharing the great news of our God and Savior, Jesus.

Micah 6:8 (NASB) He has told you, O man, what is good;
And what does the Lord require of you
But to do justice, to love kindness,
And to walk humbly with your God?

As we go about that, we are to be just, kind and humble. If I may suggest three small words that I use a lot in ministry, the short answer for why we are here is: Worship, Repent, and Serve.

Proverbs 19:21 Many plans are in a man's mind, but it is the Lord's purpose for him that will stand.

Ephesians 5:15 Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people).

1 Corinthians 10:31 (ESV) So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Everything we do should be to glorify God. His purpose in our lives is the one which will stand the test of time. So join me in the weeks to come, as we discover our SHAPE.

Until then …

IHFHBOH
Adam

acdum@hotmail.com
http://www.cfdevotionals.org

All scripture references are from the KJV unless otherwise noted.