Good Morning Everyone,
Our theme for this month: “Success”
Our Bible verse for today: “You are a chosen people. You are a kingdom of priests, God’s holy nation, his very own possession. This is so you can show others the goodness of God.” 1 Peter 2:9 (NLT)
Our thought for today: “Real success is fulfilling God’s purpose for you.”
Today we conclude two months of devotional thinking about living a healthy and balanced life, and what it means to be successful according to God’s standards. It has all been about simply being the best “you” you can be. The goal is not to be perfect, nor is it to become like anyone else. Each of us is to be so in synch with God that it is His good and perfect plan that is being fulfilled in our lives.
In 1 Peter 2:9 Peter tells us, the people of God, that we are a chosen people. God has selected us to be His priests, His ministers, a holy nation. And the reason He has done so is so that we can show others the goodness, the greatness, of God. In other words, the world around us is to learn about God by listening to and observing us.
This is when we are at our best. When the light of Jesus shines through us; when the goodness and grace and mercy and compassion of God is evident to the world through the words and actions of the people of God; then God is glorified and we have fulfilled our true purpose.
What does this mean for you as an individual? Let me say it again, “Just be the best “you” you can be. Take care of yourself. Stay as healthy as you can for as long as you can. Discover your uniqueness. Seek out and develop the gifts, skills and abilities that God has given you, and then spend your life using them to bless others and to honor Him. Be intentional about your spiritual growth. By means of prayer and Bible study, service and fellowship, place yourself in a position before God everyday whereby He can mold you and shape you into the person He wants you to be.
Forget the lies of the world regarding money and possessions, accolades and status. Real success means fulfilling God’s purpose for your life. If you’re still a little confused about what that might be, or if you would just like to explore it a little more fully, I invite you to join us at Oak Hill Baptist Church on Sunday evenings at 6:00 beginning Sunday March 22nd. As a group we will spend six weeks studying “What in the World Am I Here For?” This is the updated version of Rick Warren’s “The Purpose Driven Life”. It’s going to be a great time of discovery for all of us. Please plan to join us.
God Bless,
Pastor Jim
Oak Hill Baptist Church 