Living To Hit The Mark

Read This: “I have competed well; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

Think: There are some people reading this who know exactly what God has called them to do and how they can best serve him. But there are more than a few others out there who struggle to figure out how we fit in to God’s big picture, who feel a little awkward and insignificant in the midst of the masses. There’s so much pressure to make something of yourself—to have a tangible list of accomplishments ready to rattle off to strangers and family members alike. With such huge expectations it’s no wonder so many lose focus and, before long, lose their motivation to even try.

But no matter how average or quirky you are, God has gifted you with a unique combination or talent and passion. You have a calling. We all do. And you don’t have to go looking for it because God’s already told us—to glorify him by loving him and loving others. Matthew 22: 37-39 says, “Jesus said to him, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. The second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’^” This is God’s purpose for your life; this is your target.

But it doesn’t just happen. We have to be focused in a world clouded with distractions. We have to be intentional with our time, our relationships, and our finances. It will play out differently in people’s lives—for some it may lead to a life in ministry, for others it might be being the best teacher, businessperson, friend, or neighbor you can be. You don’t have to be famous or popular to make a difference. You don’t have to have a big name to have a big life. If you obey God’s most important instructions, you can’t miss the mark.

Ask: After the Apostle Paul’s conversion, he worked tirelessly for the sake of the gospel. Do you have the same confidence as him in the key verse? Why or why not?

Pray: Ask God to help you be focused and intentional in everything you do today and every day.