Christian Writers Circle

Our Powerful Purpose
That Jesus May Be Glorified
by Brenda D. Flowers

1 Peter 4: 7-13 (NKJV) But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen. Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.

Meditating on these words, I am impressed by their timeliness, practicality and hope.

When God speaks to me through His Word, I am comforted. I know God is aware of my circumstances. He hears my cries for help and direction.

For many weeks, I have been seeking the Lord for guidance regarding His will for my action steps related to some challenging family relationships. Also, I have been sincerely praying on how to live boldly for Him in a way that would give Him glory in today’s culture.

Look at His answer, “Be serious and watchful in your prayers. And above all things have fervent love for one another, for ‘love will cover a multitude of sins.’ Be hospitable to one another without grumbling.”

 As Christians, we are called to a very powerful purpose to live in a way that gives God the glory. His Spirit helps us, in our weakness, to leave our sinful ways, bad habits and comfortable self-serving existence. We are called to have a heavenly perspective, recognizing who we are in Christ.

As we journey to Holiness, not in our own strength, Holy Spirit empowers us to let go of our  past selves to embrace our new selves, God’s image-bearers living righteously for Him.  (See Ephesians 4:22-24)

Sometimes, I find myself questioning if I am willing to live a fully devoted life for Christ, to bring positive changes in my circle of influence. I confess my weakness and humbly seek God’s will, not my will.

God assures me:

In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. Ephesians 1: 13-14 (NKJV)

Holy Spirit, You are the change agent, empowering me to complete my life purpose. Thank You for helping me to stand for Truth each day in this counter culture. May my mind be transformed and may Your Life-giving Love be poured out through me as I step out in faith. I treasure the gift  You are!