Monday
Belonging
Read 2 Corinthians 5:20; Mark 10:41-45
Seed Thought: If I belong to something not only do I belong to it but it belongs to me. If something belongs to me then I value it, care for it, and I do everything I can to make it work properly. God did not say we are like a body. God says we are the Body of Christ. We are not made up of one member but many. As in the physical body it takes parts and counterparts to make the body function. We are like that from the minute we are born, and when we are born again connections are made that make us who we are.
If I belong to something then what ever happens to it affects me. When I belong, I no longer long for something else, but, I now belong and my need for belonging is satisfied. Do I have a vested interest in Open Door church and if I do what am I doing to be a part of it’s success? Do I pray for it? Do I Labor in it? Do I Speak for it? People say I belong to Christ and I don’t’ need to be a part of the Body. Without a body a head has no way to function. We are the Body are the Body of Christ. What are we doing with our part of the Body?
The definition of the word church in the Greek is to be a citizen who is called out and called together to do the work of government. We are called out of the world into the church to do the business of the Kingdom of God. The church is to be God’s governing body in the world to bring about the Kingdom of God. God’s governmental representatives are not like this world’s,
but they are called to serve mankind demonstrating God’s love, care and provision of its King.
Action Plan: Reflect on belonging today, Ask yourself, where does my piece in this puzzle fit? If you are not sure as The Helper, He will show you.
Tuesday
Connecting With God And His People
Read Psalms 19:7-11
Seed Thought: We are all on a journey and each of us are at different places in our relationship with God. Some are just exploring who God is and how He can fit into their lives. Some have just begun a relationship with God, while others have been walking with God for a long time. Wherever you are on your journey, God is close by. He longs to have a relationship with you, but won't force you to spend time with Him. As Christians we are connected with God. The greater the connection the stronger the bond is with Him. There are times in our life that we feel distant, lost and lonely, this is not because he has left us, but, many times it because we are busy and we become influenced by the culture we live in. We need direction we need relationship
Connecting with God is not about religion, empty ritual, or mindless ceremony. Connecting with God is all about a relationship -- walking and talking with the God who created you! Spend time in worship and adoration of Him. We connect with God through fellowship with other believers. Fellowship with God and other believers is vital to our existence. We need each other in times of testing and trials; we need each other times of happiness and rejoicing. Connecting with God and other believers is as easy as saying good morning!
Action Plan: Think about this question – When do you feel closest to God? After you have done this list ways that you feel closer to God.
Wednesday
We Are Connected
Read Mark 10:42-45; Ephesians 4:12; 1 Peter 4:8-11
The Body of Christ is exactly like the human body. And as members of that Body, we are all joined together in God-ordained relationships. There are no unnecessary parts. The Bible says the Lord has set every member in the Body as it has pleased Him. We are connected to each other through service Every Christian is called to serve. We are called to work together and people who work together build strong bonds with one another. We don't choose which parts of the Body we have direct relationships with and which ones we have only indirect relationships with. God has made those decisions. But when the Body is working properly, all parts work together, help each other and minister to each other so there is an increase or a building up of the whole Body. We are all servants of God using our gifts to build up the rest of His Body to do the work of the Kingdom. The most important thing in your life is your relationship with God. After that is your relationship with people—your family, your friends and loved ones—and beyond them, your relationships with other members of the Body of Christ.
We must understand the proper ordering and working of our relationships within the Body of Christ because of the effect relationship has on our prosperity. That's right. Relationship is inseparable from prosperity. Remember, the Bible says that proper functioning in each individual part "causes the growth (or increase) of the body for the building up of itself in love" (Eph. 4:16).
Action Plan: Are you connected? What ways are you connected? What are ways that you can get connected? Make a list and get connected.
Thursday
Staying Connected
Read John 15:1-17
Seed Thought: In our world, “staying connected” has perhaps never been easier. TV, Internet, Cell Phones, iPods, Laptops, Blackberrys, Webcams…and the list goes on. Amazingly, though, amidst all of this “connection” we continue to see more and more loneliness and isolation. The question is, “Who and what are we connected to?” Jesus’ words are clear – if we’re not connected to Him, the branch withers and dies. Christ is the connection we all desperately need. Christ’s death and resurrection connects us to God and it connects us to each other. We are friends of God. We make friends in the Body as we relate and give our self to each other. Friends are our equals that encourage us, challenge us and comfort us.
The cross has long been used as a symbol of that connection – the vertical beam of the cross representing our restored connection to the Father through Jesus’ death and the horizontal beam representing our restored connection to each other. The cross keeps you connected to the vine, Jesus Christ. And in Him, you bear fruit and await His coming with confidence, living in faith to God and love toward your neighbors.
Action Plan: Are you connected to the vine? If not ask the Jesus to make the connection. If you are connected ask God to strengthen the connection. Ask God to what do I need to do to stay connected.
Friday
Am I Connected?
Read John 1:35-44
Take today and reflected on the word connection and how it relates to you, God and the body of Christ. Ask yourself Do I belong to something? Am I satisfied? Do I truly belong to the local body and do I have an impact on or within my local church? Do I have a vested interest in Open Door church and if I do what am I doing to be a part of it’s success? Do I pray for it? Do I Labor in it? Do I Speak for it? Am I doing my part?
There are ways you can connect with others. Make a list of those you feel God has been calling you to become connected with. Pray for them. Visit them. Invite them. Help them connect. Partner with them to do the work of the Kingdom. Let’s search for those he is looking for. His Heart Is Our Mission!
The Weekender
Looking Back
Today is the day that we take time to look back on what we have learned this past week. To reflect on what the Holy Spirit has highlighted in our lives and how we can implement the changes needed in our lives to be fully all we can be.
Father, we ask that you bring back remembrance of changes and what we need to do to change in our life to be fully who and what you have purposed us to be in your kingdom, Father thank you for being at work in our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen
Take a few moments and Journal what the Father is speaking to you:
August 20, 2011
The Daily Compass August 15-20, 2011
Monday
Called To The Fields
Read John 4:29-37
Seed Thought: The field is the people and the work that God has called us to serve in. God has created us with gifts, talents, abilities and resources. God has given us a place, but many times we choose to wander and be away from His presence. We can be much like Cain, we allow jealousy to consume us because see what others may or may not be doing. Jealousy blinds us therefore we do not realize our unique place with God. Cain lost his unique place because of his jealousy. Where Cain murdered his brother physically, we often murder our brother with our words. We must purposely move toward and into the presence of God. We have work to do, important work. We have been called by God to serve in the fields for the harvest.
In the world we might ask a person what is the field of work they are in. What we are asking is what line of work they are in. We must remember that our line of work is the Kingdom of God. It does not matter what job we have we are working for the king. We are laboring in the field of the service which He has called and placed us in. He has called us to fulfill His will. When God calls us and saves us, He gives us His Glory, His Presence, He gives us a place in His Presence so we can manifest His Glory. We are given purpose and called to work with God in a a field of labor. Where is your field or your place? Many do not realize that we have been sent here with a purpose and a call, a call to be world changers.
Declaration: I am world changer; God has called me to the harvest.
Action Plan: Look around where you are and ask “Father where are you working today?” “How can I be of service to your Kingdom today?”
Tuesday
The Field
Read Matthew 13:33; Acts 13:1-3; Acts 17:26-28; Matthew 13:31-32
Seed Thought: Fields are a place of Planting, laboring and harvest. They are a place of production. They are the places the Lord of the Harvest has sent us to work. Jesus said he was going to prepare a place for us. We all have a place. We must look up from where we stand and see the fields that are white for harvest. The field we are called to is the place of our influence, the place of our labor and the place of our harvest. We are standing in the field of our labor. Who and what is before us that God has called us to serve. God sets us apart and calls us to a field of service. The field of our service is the place we have influence. The field is a place we are called too. The field is the place that God has set us in that we find our being in. Who and what we have been created to be. The fields are a people we have been called to serve. Our field is the place where we are fruitful. The field is the place where we sow the seed of the Word that God has given us. The field is where we get our inheritance. We work in the field because we are married to the one who owns the field. The field is where we are assigned by the Lord of the Harvest. We have to know and stay in our field. Jesus sent to the lost sheep of Israel, Paul to the gentiles and Peter to the Jews. We need to be focused on our assignment. Our field of work is one that is given by the Holy Spirit and sanctioned by the church.
Declaration: I have influence where ever I go; the Holy Spirit empowers me to be a positive witness.
Action Plan: Do you have a powerful influence with those you come in contact with? Are your words effective? Do you boldly witness or do you shy away? If you need more power in your life, spend time in prayer, seek Gods face, He is willing.
Wednesday
Planting In The Fields
Read 1 Corinthians 3:5-9
Seed Thought: Fields are a place of planting; fields are a place of production. Planting a seed is not the only job of a farmer. He also tends to the field (watering, fertilizing, etc). Paul told the gospel to the Corinthians (he planted), and then Apollos labored for their spiritual maturity - he watered. Paul brought them into the flock of the Lord Jesus, and Apollos fed them. If a man plants a tree and that tree is not watered, it will die. If another waters some dirt but there was no seed ever planted there, what good is that?
There aren’t many people actively involved in ministry. God’s field is a BIG field and there is a major lack of people laboring for Jesus. Churches are like a football games - the stands are filled with thousands of people doing nothing but watching two dozen people on the field doing all of the work! Those ones in the field sweat, get beat, practice hours on end, fight hard and prepare. They care about their job on the field, and they work at it. But the ones in the stands are only there for entertainment. They don’t care about anybody else because they just want to relax and be comfortable. If you attend a church, chances are that you will find most of the people in that church sitting in the stands. Don’t let yourself be one of those lazy ones in the stands. Get out there and labor in God’s field. It doesn’t matter whether your ministry is one of planting or one of watering, to those in the church, or to those in the world, whether it is evangelism or building people up in the image of Christ.
Declaration: God’s field is a Big field and I will do my part.
Action Plan: Examine yourself with the Holy Spirit leading; are you like those fans in the stand? Ask yourself and the Holy Spirit what you can do participate and not be a spectator?
Thursday
The Field Needs Laborers
Read Romans 10:13-15; 1 Peter 3:15
Seed Thought: Just as the people of Samaria needed a willing teacher, people today need willing teachers as well. After telling the Romans that “whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13), Paul went on to discuss the importance of those who preach the gospel. The lost need to be taught; it is important to have men who have dedicated their lives to this work to do it. Many people feel that this is a job just for the preacher and that is not the case. It is not only the responsibility of the preacher to teach others. All Christians must be ready to teach when opportunities arise. And just as God shows no partiality we must not either. We should be willing to teach others regardless of their race, gender, class, background, or any other factor. Not only is it important to have willing teachers, but those teachers must have the right message. Just as Jesus did, we must simply preach the gospel. This is the message that people need to hear. We have the message that the world needs to hear and that is the Good News. Laborers it is time to get busy and share the Good News”
Declaration: I will use my voice to spread the Good News
Action Plan: will you say yes to Him and allow Him to use you to spread the Good News, to give others the same opportunity afforded you, the Good News of eternal life. Will you stand up and be a witness? Labors are needed in the fields.
Friday
You Ask Why I Follow This Jesus
You ask why I follow this Jesus. Why I love Him the way I do? When the world’s turned away from his teachings and the people who serve Him are few. It’s not the rewards I’m after or gifts that I hope to receive. It’s the presence that calls for commitment. It’s the Spirit I trust and believe. The Lord doesn’t shelter His faithful or spare them all suffering and pain. Like everyone else I have burdens, and walk through my share of rain. Yet He gives me a plan and a purpose and that joy only Christians have known. I never know what comes tomorrow, but I do know I’m never alone. It’s the love always there when you need it; It’s the words that redeem and inspire. It’s the longing to ever be with Him that burns in my heart like a fire. So you ask why I love my Lord Jesus? Well, friend, that’s so easy to see. But the one thing that fills me with wonder is why Jesus loves someone like me.
Author Unknown.
Write down three things you find as the most valuable to you
and put them in order; one being the most important of the
three.
1.
2.
3.
Write down
Called To The Fields
Read John 4:29-37
Seed Thought: The field is the people and the work that God has called us to serve in. God has created us with gifts, talents, abilities and resources. God has given us a place, but many times we choose to wander and be away from His presence. We can be much like Cain, we allow jealousy to consume us because see what others may or may not be doing. Jealousy blinds us therefore we do not realize our unique place with God. Cain lost his unique place because of his jealousy. Where Cain murdered his brother physically, we often murder our brother with our words. We must purposely move toward and into the presence of God. We have work to do, important work. We have been called by God to serve in the fields for the harvest.
In the world we might ask a person what is the field of work they are in. What we are asking is what line of work they are in. We must remember that our line of work is the Kingdom of God. It does not matter what job we have we are working for the king. We are laboring in the field of the service which He has called and placed us in. He has called us to fulfill His will. When God calls us and saves us, He gives us His Glory, His Presence, He gives us a place in His Presence so we can manifest His Glory. We are given purpose and called to work with God in a a field of labor. Where is your field or your place? Many do not realize that we have been sent here with a purpose and a call, a call to be world changers.
Declaration: I am world changer; God has called me to the harvest.
Action Plan: Look around where you are and ask “Father where are you working today?” “How can I be of service to your Kingdom today?”
Tuesday
The Field
Read Matthew 13:33; Acts 13:1-3; Acts 17:26-28; Matthew 13:31-32
Seed Thought: Fields are a place of Planting, laboring and harvest. They are a place of production. They are the places the Lord of the Harvest has sent us to work. Jesus said he was going to prepare a place for us. We all have a place. We must look up from where we stand and see the fields that are white for harvest. The field we are called to is the place of our influence, the place of our labor and the place of our harvest. We are standing in the field of our labor. Who and what is before us that God has called us to serve. God sets us apart and calls us to a field of service. The field of our service is the place we have influence. The field is a place we are called too. The field is the place that God has set us in that we find our being in. Who and what we have been created to be. The fields are a people we have been called to serve. Our field is the place where we are fruitful. The field is the place where we sow the seed of the Word that God has given us. The field is where we get our inheritance. We work in the field because we are married to the one who owns the field. The field is where we are assigned by the Lord of the Harvest. We have to know and stay in our field. Jesus sent to the lost sheep of Israel, Paul to the gentiles and Peter to the Jews. We need to be focused on our assignment. Our field of work is one that is given by the Holy Spirit and sanctioned by the church.
Declaration: I have influence where ever I go; the Holy Spirit empowers me to be a positive witness.
Action Plan: Do you have a powerful influence with those you come in contact with? Are your words effective? Do you boldly witness or do you shy away? If you need more power in your life, spend time in prayer, seek Gods face, He is willing.
Wednesday
Planting In The Fields
Read 1 Corinthians 3:5-9
Seed Thought: Fields are a place of planting; fields are a place of production. Planting a seed is not the only job of a farmer. He also tends to the field (watering, fertilizing, etc). Paul told the gospel to the Corinthians (he planted), and then Apollos labored for their spiritual maturity - he watered. Paul brought them into the flock of the Lord Jesus, and Apollos fed them. If a man plants a tree and that tree is not watered, it will die. If another waters some dirt but there was no seed ever planted there, what good is that?
There aren’t many people actively involved in ministry. God’s field is a BIG field and there is a major lack of people laboring for Jesus. Churches are like a football games - the stands are filled with thousands of people doing nothing but watching two dozen people on the field doing all of the work! Those ones in the field sweat, get beat, practice hours on end, fight hard and prepare. They care about their job on the field, and they work at it. But the ones in the stands are only there for entertainment. They don’t care about anybody else because they just want to relax and be comfortable. If you attend a church, chances are that you will find most of the people in that church sitting in the stands. Don’t let yourself be one of those lazy ones in the stands. Get out there and labor in God’s field. It doesn’t matter whether your ministry is one of planting or one of watering, to those in the church, or to those in the world, whether it is evangelism or building people up in the image of Christ.
Declaration: God’s field is a Big field and I will do my part.
Action Plan: Examine yourself with the Holy Spirit leading; are you like those fans in the stand? Ask yourself and the Holy Spirit what you can do participate and not be a spectator?
Thursday
The Field Needs Laborers
Read Romans 10:13-15; 1 Peter 3:15
Seed Thought: Just as the people of Samaria needed a willing teacher, people today need willing teachers as well. After telling the Romans that “whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Romans 10:13), Paul went on to discuss the importance of those who preach the gospel. The lost need to be taught; it is important to have men who have dedicated their lives to this work to do it. Many people feel that this is a job just for the preacher and that is not the case. It is not only the responsibility of the preacher to teach others. All Christians must be ready to teach when opportunities arise. And just as God shows no partiality we must not either. We should be willing to teach others regardless of their race, gender, class, background, or any other factor. Not only is it important to have willing teachers, but those teachers must have the right message. Just as Jesus did, we must simply preach the gospel. This is the message that people need to hear. We have the message that the world needs to hear and that is the Good News. Laborers it is time to get busy and share the Good News”
Declaration: I will use my voice to spread the Good News
Action Plan: will you say yes to Him and allow Him to use you to spread the Good News, to give others the same opportunity afforded you, the Good News of eternal life. Will you stand up and be a witness? Labors are needed in the fields.
Friday
You Ask Why I Follow This Jesus
You ask why I follow this Jesus. Why I love Him the way I do? When the world’s turned away from his teachings and the people who serve Him are few. It’s not the rewards I’m after or gifts that I hope to receive. It’s the presence that calls for commitment. It’s the Spirit I trust and believe. The Lord doesn’t shelter His faithful or spare them all suffering and pain. Like everyone else I have burdens, and walk through my share of rain. Yet He gives me a plan and a purpose and that joy only Christians have known. I never know what comes tomorrow, but I do know I’m never alone. It’s the love always there when you need it; It’s the words that redeem and inspire. It’s the longing to ever be with Him that burns in my heart like a fire. So you ask why I love my Lord Jesus? Well, friend, that’s so easy to see. But the one thing that fills me with wonder is why Jesus loves someone like me.
Author Unknown.
Write down three things you find as the most valuable to you
and put them in order; one being the most important of the
three.
1.
2.
3.
Write down
August 10, 2011
The Daily Compass August 8-13,2011
Monday
Who Is Called By God?
Read Exodus 3:1-15
Seed Thought: From the very beginning of mankind God placed purpose in us and then called us to that purpose. Adam came into the world with a call from God on his life a call to fulfill the purpose of God around him. Even when man had sinned in Genesis 3 God was still calling for Adam. Who is called by God? Mankind is called by God. All humanity has a call from God to fulfill His Purpose. God was still looking for a man to fulfill His purpose even after man sinned because even in sin man still had his purpose. The people around us in the world still have the purpose of God in them. God spoke to Adam in his sin and said that one day there would come a man from his linage that would bring mankind into the purpose of God again and that new man is Christ Jesus and those that are called to be in Him. We have been created to fulfill the purpose of God in the earth. We are his ambassadors to the earth.
Our call is by Him and to Him and for Him. Moses in the Old Testament is the picture of God’s calling. He created Moses with a purpose to deliver His people from bondage and then called Moses to the thing he had been created to do. Moses heard the call of God at the burning bush but had to move toward the one calling to get to a place to hear his call. Our call is to be his representative on the earth. We are His ambassadors for the Kingdom of God. He is calling are we listening? When we hear the call it means He has chosen us.
Declaration: I am an ambassador for the Kingdom of God.
Action Plan: Confused or don’t know what your calling is take deep look at your life, what makes you happy, what is your passion? Don’t know how that fits in to God’s plan for you spend time in prayer with God and let Him put the puzzle pieces together. He just waiting for you to let Him.
Tuesday
Called Because Of His Love
Read exodus 3:7; Jeremiah 3:15; Ephesians 2:4-6
Seed Thought: It's a wonder God didn't lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.(The Message)
We are called because God is concerned with the earth and its’ people. God’s call is always a call of love to a labor of love. God is love and everything He does is out of love. God raises up men who have His heart to do who His Work. When you came to Christ; God called to your heart because it is the place of the image of God in you. We are called by his immense mercy and incredible love for us. We are called because we are like Him we are made in that image of love.
Declaration: God picked me up and set me in the company of The Messiah. I have been called to a labor of love because He loves me so incredibly.
Action Plan: Loving others is not always easy, loving yourself is not easy, but before you can you must understand His love for you. Ask Him to show you. Spend time in worship today basking in His love for you. Then ask Him to show you how to love yourself and others.
Wednesday
Availability Not Ability
Read 1 Corinthians 1:24-31; 3:5-9; Romans 8:30
Seed Thought: We are not called and chosen because of ability but availability. God looked to see if Moses would respond to His call. Many are called but few are chosen. God says. Well who are the chosen? They are the ones who respond to God’s call. God’s not calling us according to our great ability but our availability. God equips the called. God chooses the weak and makes them strong. Some people do not consider themselves worthy to do God’s work because they made bad decisions in the past. But God calls all sorts of people, even from the most unlikely backgrounds. Moses was a murderer and had a stutter. Paul, a tentmaker, went around persecuting Christians zealously before his conversion. Mary was not even married. Jonah had no desire to preach the word of God and ran away. For many, the call of God brings also a great reluctance. The attempt to run away from God’s call does not find us peace; but the search and discovery of God’s will for you is a deep and fascinating endeavor. Every job, every path to which Christ calls us, ultimately leads to fulfillment and happiness, because it leads to God, to sharing in God’s own life. Be available there will be no regrets.
Declaration: I once was weak, but through Christ Jesus I am STRONG!
Action Plan: Do you see yourself unworthy of His call. Through Christ Jesus He makes us worthy, He gives us ability. It is through our inability to do, that His ability and strength shine through. Reflect on the ways that He has shown you that you can trust Him. Make a list, then thank Him.
Thursday
Called By Name
Read Ephesians 5:28-29
Seed Thought: Do you know my name?" There are plenty of people, some of whom may be reading this today, who have never heard God call their name. You may doubt whether or not God even knows your name. God sees no crowds and knows no strangers. To God every face is a special with a special name. The creator of the universe, the sustainer of life, the architect of history has your name inscribed in the heavens? "I have inscribed your name on the palms of my hands." (Isaiah 49:16). It's an amazing thought, when you get up close. The God of heaven and earth has inscribed your name on his hands. You may have seen your name inscribed on a trophy, a diploma, or a certificate. You may have heard your name spoken by a spouse, a child, a teacher, or a friend. It feels good to be chosen. I know, as one who was usually chosen last, how good it sounds to finally hear your name. But being found worthy by your peers does not compare to being tapped by God to play on God's team. God calls us by name. Everyone God called He calls by name. Since the beginning of time, God has been calling. Adam, where are you? Moses, who are you? Saul, why are you? Listen to the questions of your life. You are not just another birth in the ever flowing stream of time; you are a child of God with a special story and a special calling and a special name. You matter to God. God knows who you are, where you've been, and where you're going.
Declaration: I have been called by God; He knows MY name!
Action Plan: Spend time with God today. Ask Him to tell you what He thinks of you, how He sees you, and what He desires for you. Take time and write down what He shows you.
Friday
Fulfilling God’s Call
Read Matthew 22:1-14; Revelation 19:9
Seed Thought: We are called because God purposed for a man to fulfill His will on the earth. God is always looking for a man. That should be what we are looking for, men to fulfill the purpose of God.
Our call is to God
Our call is from God
Our call is for God
How many calls or invitations do we have to have to join Him? Are we joining in? Are we hearing or ignoring the call? Are we beating or killing the messenger? How do we respond to the invitation that God has given us? Fulfilling God’s call starts with one simple word: YES
Declaration: Yes Lord!!!
Action Plan: Yes Lord here I am.
The Weekender
Looking Back
Today is the day that we take time to look back on what we have learned this past week. To reflect on what the Holy Spirit has highlighted in our lives and how we can implement the changes needed in our lives to be fully all we can be.
Father, we ask that you bring back remembrance of changes and what we need to do to change in our life to be fully who and what you have purposed us to be in your kingdom, Father thank you for being at work in our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen
Take a few moments and Journal what the Father is speaking to you:
Who Is Called By God?
Read Exodus 3:1-15
Seed Thought: From the very beginning of mankind God placed purpose in us and then called us to that purpose. Adam came into the world with a call from God on his life a call to fulfill the purpose of God around him. Even when man had sinned in Genesis 3 God was still calling for Adam. Who is called by God? Mankind is called by God. All humanity has a call from God to fulfill His Purpose. God was still looking for a man to fulfill His purpose even after man sinned because even in sin man still had his purpose. The people around us in the world still have the purpose of God in them. God spoke to Adam in his sin and said that one day there would come a man from his linage that would bring mankind into the purpose of God again and that new man is Christ Jesus and those that are called to be in Him. We have been created to fulfill the purpose of God in the earth. We are his ambassadors to the earth.
Our call is by Him and to Him and for Him. Moses in the Old Testament is the picture of God’s calling. He created Moses with a purpose to deliver His people from bondage and then called Moses to the thing he had been created to do. Moses heard the call of God at the burning bush but had to move toward the one calling to get to a place to hear his call. Our call is to be his representative on the earth. We are His ambassadors for the Kingdom of God. He is calling are we listening? When we hear the call it means He has chosen us.
Declaration: I am an ambassador for the Kingdom of God.
Action Plan: Confused or don’t know what your calling is take deep look at your life, what makes you happy, what is your passion? Don’t know how that fits in to God’s plan for you spend time in prayer with God and let Him put the puzzle pieces together. He just waiting for you to let Him.
Tuesday
Called Because Of His Love
Read exodus 3:7; Jeremiah 3:15; Ephesians 2:4-6
Seed Thought: It's a wonder God didn't lose his temper and do away with the whole lot of us. Instead, immense in mercy and with an incredible love, he embraced us. He took our sin-dead lives and made us alive in Christ. He did all this on his own, with no help from us! Then he picked us up and set us down in highest heaven in company with Jesus, our Messiah.(The Message)
We are called because God is concerned with the earth and its’ people. God’s call is always a call of love to a labor of love. God is love and everything He does is out of love. God raises up men who have His heart to do who His Work. When you came to Christ; God called to your heart because it is the place of the image of God in you. We are called by his immense mercy and incredible love for us. We are called because we are like Him we are made in that image of love.
Declaration: God picked me up and set me in the company of The Messiah. I have been called to a labor of love because He loves me so incredibly.
Action Plan: Loving others is not always easy, loving yourself is not easy, but before you can you must understand His love for you. Ask Him to show you. Spend time in worship today basking in His love for you. Then ask Him to show you how to love yourself and others.
Wednesday
Availability Not Ability
Read 1 Corinthians 1:24-31; 3:5-9; Romans 8:30
Seed Thought: We are not called and chosen because of ability but availability. God looked to see if Moses would respond to His call. Many are called but few are chosen. God says. Well who are the chosen? They are the ones who respond to God’s call. God’s not calling us according to our great ability but our availability. God equips the called. God chooses the weak and makes them strong. Some people do not consider themselves worthy to do God’s work because they made bad decisions in the past. But God calls all sorts of people, even from the most unlikely backgrounds. Moses was a murderer and had a stutter. Paul, a tentmaker, went around persecuting Christians zealously before his conversion. Mary was not even married. Jonah had no desire to preach the word of God and ran away. For many, the call of God brings also a great reluctance. The attempt to run away from God’s call does not find us peace; but the search and discovery of God’s will for you is a deep and fascinating endeavor. Every job, every path to which Christ calls us, ultimately leads to fulfillment and happiness, because it leads to God, to sharing in God’s own life. Be available there will be no regrets.
Declaration: I once was weak, but through Christ Jesus I am STRONG!
Action Plan: Do you see yourself unworthy of His call. Through Christ Jesus He makes us worthy, He gives us ability. It is through our inability to do, that His ability and strength shine through. Reflect on the ways that He has shown you that you can trust Him. Make a list, then thank Him.
Thursday
Called By Name
Read Ephesians 5:28-29
Seed Thought: Do you know my name?" There are plenty of people, some of whom may be reading this today, who have never heard God call their name. You may doubt whether or not God even knows your name. God sees no crowds and knows no strangers. To God every face is a special with a special name. The creator of the universe, the sustainer of life, the architect of history has your name inscribed in the heavens? "I have inscribed your name on the palms of my hands." (Isaiah 49:16). It's an amazing thought, when you get up close. The God of heaven and earth has inscribed your name on his hands. You may have seen your name inscribed on a trophy, a diploma, or a certificate. You may have heard your name spoken by a spouse, a child, a teacher, or a friend. It feels good to be chosen. I know, as one who was usually chosen last, how good it sounds to finally hear your name. But being found worthy by your peers does not compare to being tapped by God to play on God's team. God calls us by name. Everyone God called He calls by name. Since the beginning of time, God has been calling. Adam, where are you? Moses, who are you? Saul, why are you? Listen to the questions of your life. You are not just another birth in the ever flowing stream of time; you are a child of God with a special story and a special calling and a special name. You matter to God. God knows who you are, where you've been, and where you're going.
Declaration: I have been called by God; He knows MY name!
Action Plan: Spend time with God today. Ask Him to tell you what He thinks of you, how He sees you, and what He desires for you. Take time and write down what He shows you.
Friday
Fulfilling God’s Call
Read Matthew 22:1-14; Revelation 19:9
Seed Thought: We are called because God purposed for a man to fulfill His will on the earth. God is always looking for a man. That should be what we are looking for, men to fulfill the purpose of God.
Our call is to God
Our call is from God
Our call is for God
How many calls or invitations do we have to have to join Him? Are we joining in? Are we hearing or ignoring the call? Are we beating or killing the messenger? How do we respond to the invitation that God has given us? Fulfilling God’s call starts with one simple word: YES
Declaration: Yes Lord!!!
Action Plan: Yes Lord here I am.
The Weekender
Looking Back
Today is the day that we take time to look back on what we have learned this past week. To reflect on what the Holy Spirit has highlighted in our lives and how we can implement the changes needed in our lives to be fully all we can be.
Father, we ask that you bring back remembrance of changes and what we need to do to change in our life to be fully who and what you have purposed us to be in your kingdom, Father thank you for being at work in our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen
Take a few moments and Journal what the Father is speaking to you:
August 6, 2011
The Daily Compass August 1-6, 2011(Purpose)
Monday
What Is Our Purpose?
Read Hebrews 10:5-10; 2 Timothy 4:7-8; Acts 11:23; Luke 14:33
Seed Thought: Our purpose is to glorify God. You are here to make a mark on the world that glorifies God. Our purpose is to fulfill God’s purpose. We are called to do his will His will is His Purpose. Jesus said here I am I have come to do your will oh God. Paul's purpose and mission in life was to live according to the will of God. Everything in Paul's life was surrounded around achieving his goal (purpose). Later Paul says: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. As Christians, we must be aware that we are created for purpose. We all have purpose – We are created for purpose, many times in our journey we are going after our own purpose and goals but find God’s. Woven into the fiber of every man’s being is the purpose of God. It is the will of God to fulfill the higher goal of God. It is the very heart of who we are because it was created in us to fulfill the purpose of God.
In Acts 11 we read that Barnabas encouraged Christians in Antioch "that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord." If we desire to continue with the Lord, we must make this our goal in life. Everything else must come second to our relationship with the Lord. Jesus teaches this lesson saying: “Simply put, if you're not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can't be my disciple." Our purpose is far bigger than our needs and our desires.
Declaration: I will glorify God in everything that I do!
Action Plan: What is your purpose in life? What have you set forth to accomplish above all else in life? If your purpose in life is to serve God, stop and think about the types of decisions you will make in life. Now think about this: Do my decisions demonstrate that my purpose in life is to serve God?
Tuesday
God Is Hiring
Read Matthew 20:1-16
Seed Thought: Is the church of this day like people waiting on their plane to leave at the airport or are we labors in God’s field to be world changers. Are we saved to sit or called to walk with God. Our purpose is bigger than sitting in a pew waiting to check out and go to heaven. Our purpose is to bring heaven to earth. Jesus came preaching the Kingdom of God. Is the present rule and reign of God our message? The world is looking for something to belong too. We should showing and sharing the Kingdom of God with the world. We should be inviting them to become a part of the business of God. God is hiring labors so let’s invite people to take their place in the work of the Kingdom of God. There was a time in my life that I thought that I had wasted so much of my life and that it was too late for me to be effective in the Kingdom of God, but I have found my purpose and I have a lot to do and so do you. God’s hiring no matter what time of your life you are called to come in – God’s looking for labors.
Declaration: I am a world changer, God is hiring, so I am advertising!
Action Plan: What is the field God has given you? Moses was also a man looking for his purpose in his own way. He wanted to deliver one man and God wanted him to deliver a whole nation. God’s plan is bigger than ours. If you know what field your piece of the puzzle fits in take this time to ask the Helper, He is waiting to show you.
Wednesday
Finding Your Purpose
Read Habakkuk 2:1-3
Seed Thought: To ask any man or woman, including your parents, to tell you what your God-given purpose is, is like asking the Ford Motor Company, "What is the purpose and capabilities of a B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber?" The folks at Ford have some sharp minds, but they cannot answer that question for one reason. They did not design or manufacture that aircraft. If you want to know your God-given purpose, you must go to your manufacturer, When the God created us; He gave each of us an operator's manual. It is called the Bible - the Written Word of God. Our operator's manual tells us which counselor to inquire of concerning this critical issue. Our counselor is none other than the Holy Spirit! He is the only one who can reveal to us our God-given purpose. When you seek His counsel, there is no possibility of you failing in life because His counsel is excellent in working, the prophet Habakkuk sought out the Wonderful Counselor, became a man of understanding and got clear on his God-given vision.
Finding your purpose takes action on your part, it is not going to come to you, you have to get up and do something. Following Habakkuk’s example is a good place to start.
Declaration: I will seek the counsel of the Helper and I will find my purpose and I will work within my Purpose to bring Glory to God.
Action Plan: Following Habakkuk’s example engage in earnest prayer, get quiet before the Lord, He will speak to you, When He speaks, write the vision down, Be ready to convey your God-given vision to others, and rejoice, because God's vision for your life is coming to pass. Earnestly pray, "Lord, what is my purpose and what did you put in me?" When you ask the Lord those questions, He will always answer you.
Thursday
Your Gifts, Talents and Abilities Defines Your Purpose
Read Romans 11:29
Seed Thought: Prior to your birth, God installed in you all of the necessary gifts, talents and abilities you would need to fulfill his purpose for your life. Those gifts, talents and abilities help define your purpose. The wings of the eagle reveal that the eagle was made to fly. The eyes of the owl reveal that it is more suited to hunt at night. The anatomy of the fish - the scales, slime coat, gills, ventral, pectoral and dorsal fins, and fact that they have no arms, legs or wings, reveals that they were designed for the water. What do you like to do? Solve mathematical problems? Play chess? Sing? Create music? Write? Build things? Invent things? Do you like to paint? Design things? Are you artistically inclined? Do you have a love for biology, nature or medicine? Do you have an analytical mind? Are you mechanically inclined?
You can be so busy fulfilling your vision for your life and not your God-given purpose! The Lord put within each of us the gifts, talents and abilities to hone, find and fulfill their God-given purpose. Once we learn our God-given purpose, our life will completely change. It will become fulfilling and satisfying! There is no greater joy than being able to help God's people walk in the Truth and fulfill His purpose for their lives!
Declaration: I will fulfill His purpose for my life.
Action Plan: Take an inventory of your giftings, talents and abilities, are you using them for God’s purpose? If not ask God to show you how.
Friday
Purpose Found
Read Acts 9:1-19
Seed Thought: Paul's conversion to Christ is one of the greatest transformational encounters in all of Scripture. Do you remember the story? Paul was traveling down the Damascus road, when he was suddenly knocked to the ground and blinded by a brilliant light. Paul immediately knew this was a supernatural encounter. And he asked, "Who are you, Lord?" The Lord replied, "I am Jesus whom you persecute." Now, Paul had just met Christ Jesus, the one whom he had been persecuting. No doubt overcome by the powerful encounter, Paul asked another question. He asked, "Lord, what will you have me to do?" When you really meet Jesus, you will find the purpose of your life! Paul discovered his mission in that moment and he never turned back. If you have met the Lord, then you have a mission, too.
Whether you're a butcher, a baker, a preacher or a plumber, God has a plan for you to glorify him and to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with all your being. And he wants you to take this calling seriously. You cannot negotiate with God about your mission. And never compromise with the world. Give God your best each day. Embrace your assignment. Fight the good fight and fulfill your purpose in Christ Jesus. When you do this your purpose is found.
The Weekender
Looking Back
Today is the day that we take time to look back on what we have learned this past week. To reflect on what the Holy Spirit has highlighted in our lives and how we can implement the changes needed in our lives to be fully all we can be.
Father, we ask that you bring back remembrance of changes and what we need to do to change in our life to be fully who and what you have purposed us to be in your kingdom, Father thank you for being at work in our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen
Take a few moments and Journal what the Father is speaking to you:
What Is Our Purpose?
Read Hebrews 10:5-10; 2 Timothy 4:7-8; Acts 11:23; Luke 14:33
Seed Thought: Our purpose is to glorify God. You are here to make a mark on the world that glorifies God. Our purpose is to fulfill God’s purpose. We are called to do his will His will is His Purpose. Jesus said here I am I have come to do your will oh God. Paul's purpose and mission in life was to live according to the will of God. Everything in Paul's life was surrounded around achieving his goal (purpose). Later Paul says: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. As Christians, we must be aware that we are created for purpose. We all have purpose – We are created for purpose, many times in our journey we are going after our own purpose and goals but find God’s. Woven into the fiber of every man’s being is the purpose of God. It is the will of God to fulfill the higher goal of God. It is the very heart of who we are because it was created in us to fulfill the purpose of God.
In Acts 11 we read that Barnabas encouraged Christians in Antioch "that with purpose of heart they should continue with the Lord." If we desire to continue with the Lord, we must make this our goal in life. Everything else must come second to our relationship with the Lord. Jesus teaches this lesson saying: “Simply put, if you're not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can't be my disciple." Our purpose is far bigger than our needs and our desires.
Declaration: I will glorify God in everything that I do!
Action Plan: What is your purpose in life? What have you set forth to accomplish above all else in life? If your purpose in life is to serve God, stop and think about the types of decisions you will make in life. Now think about this: Do my decisions demonstrate that my purpose in life is to serve God?
Tuesday
God Is Hiring
Read Matthew 20:1-16
Seed Thought: Is the church of this day like people waiting on their plane to leave at the airport or are we labors in God’s field to be world changers. Are we saved to sit or called to walk with God. Our purpose is bigger than sitting in a pew waiting to check out and go to heaven. Our purpose is to bring heaven to earth. Jesus came preaching the Kingdom of God. Is the present rule and reign of God our message? The world is looking for something to belong too. We should showing and sharing the Kingdom of God with the world. We should be inviting them to become a part of the business of God. God is hiring labors so let’s invite people to take their place in the work of the Kingdom of God. There was a time in my life that I thought that I had wasted so much of my life and that it was too late for me to be effective in the Kingdom of God, but I have found my purpose and I have a lot to do and so do you. God’s hiring no matter what time of your life you are called to come in – God’s looking for labors.
Declaration: I am a world changer, God is hiring, so I am advertising!
Action Plan: What is the field God has given you? Moses was also a man looking for his purpose in his own way. He wanted to deliver one man and God wanted him to deliver a whole nation. God’s plan is bigger than ours. If you know what field your piece of the puzzle fits in take this time to ask the Helper, He is waiting to show you.
Wednesday
Finding Your Purpose
Read Habakkuk 2:1-3
Seed Thought: To ask any man or woman, including your parents, to tell you what your God-given purpose is, is like asking the Ford Motor Company, "What is the purpose and capabilities of a B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber?" The folks at Ford have some sharp minds, but they cannot answer that question for one reason. They did not design or manufacture that aircraft. If you want to know your God-given purpose, you must go to your manufacturer, When the God created us; He gave each of us an operator's manual. It is called the Bible - the Written Word of God. Our operator's manual tells us which counselor to inquire of concerning this critical issue. Our counselor is none other than the Holy Spirit! He is the only one who can reveal to us our God-given purpose. When you seek His counsel, there is no possibility of you failing in life because His counsel is excellent in working, the prophet Habakkuk sought out the Wonderful Counselor, became a man of understanding and got clear on his God-given vision.
Finding your purpose takes action on your part, it is not going to come to you, you have to get up and do something. Following Habakkuk’s example is a good place to start.
Declaration: I will seek the counsel of the Helper and I will find my purpose and I will work within my Purpose to bring Glory to God.
Action Plan: Following Habakkuk’s example engage in earnest prayer, get quiet before the Lord, He will speak to you, When He speaks, write the vision down, Be ready to convey your God-given vision to others, and rejoice, because God's vision for your life is coming to pass. Earnestly pray, "Lord, what is my purpose and what did you put in me?" When you ask the Lord those questions, He will always answer you.
Thursday
Your Gifts, Talents and Abilities Defines Your Purpose
Read Romans 11:29
Seed Thought: Prior to your birth, God installed in you all of the necessary gifts, talents and abilities you would need to fulfill his purpose for your life. Those gifts, talents and abilities help define your purpose. The wings of the eagle reveal that the eagle was made to fly. The eyes of the owl reveal that it is more suited to hunt at night. The anatomy of the fish - the scales, slime coat, gills, ventral, pectoral and dorsal fins, and fact that they have no arms, legs or wings, reveals that they were designed for the water. What do you like to do? Solve mathematical problems? Play chess? Sing? Create music? Write? Build things? Invent things? Do you like to paint? Design things? Are you artistically inclined? Do you have a love for biology, nature or medicine? Do you have an analytical mind? Are you mechanically inclined?
You can be so busy fulfilling your vision for your life and not your God-given purpose! The Lord put within each of us the gifts, talents and abilities to hone, find and fulfill their God-given purpose. Once we learn our God-given purpose, our life will completely change. It will become fulfilling and satisfying! There is no greater joy than being able to help God's people walk in the Truth and fulfill His purpose for their lives!
Declaration: I will fulfill His purpose for my life.
Action Plan: Take an inventory of your giftings, talents and abilities, are you using them for God’s purpose? If not ask God to show you how.
Friday
Purpose Found
Read Acts 9:1-19
Seed Thought: Paul's conversion to Christ is one of the greatest transformational encounters in all of Scripture. Do you remember the story? Paul was traveling down the Damascus road, when he was suddenly knocked to the ground and blinded by a brilliant light. Paul immediately knew this was a supernatural encounter. And he asked, "Who are you, Lord?" The Lord replied, "I am Jesus whom you persecute." Now, Paul had just met Christ Jesus, the one whom he had been persecuting. No doubt overcome by the powerful encounter, Paul asked another question. He asked, "Lord, what will you have me to do?" When you really meet Jesus, you will find the purpose of your life! Paul discovered his mission in that moment and he never turned back. If you have met the Lord, then you have a mission, too.
Whether you're a butcher, a baker, a preacher or a plumber, God has a plan for you to glorify him and to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ with all your being. And he wants you to take this calling seriously. You cannot negotiate with God about your mission. And never compromise with the world. Give God your best each day. Embrace your assignment. Fight the good fight and fulfill your purpose in Christ Jesus. When you do this your purpose is found.
The Weekender
Looking Back
Today is the day that we take time to look back on what we have learned this past week. To reflect on what the Holy Spirit has highlighted in our lives and how we can implement the changes needed in our lives to be fully all we can be.
Father, we ask that you bring back remembrance of changes and what we need to do to change in our life to be fully who and what you have purposed us to be in your kingdom, Father thank you for being at work in our lives, in Jesus’ name, Amen
Take a few moments and Journal what the Father is speaking to you:
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