PURPOSE FOR LIVING (5)

[Understanding that our lives have unique functions]

Flashback
It feels good to be back on this series. In the first four editions, we have stayed on the subject of purpose for our lives. We have discussed a number of componential issues on this topic, using several characters in the scriptures. These were: Jesus, John the Baptist, Samson the Great, and Prophet Samuel.

We established in the first four editions published about six months ago: the importance of identifying one's purpose; and particularly that everyone on the earth came with an assignment built into him or her.

Across these four editions are ways on how to discover and fulfill God's purpose for your life. I encourage you to look up those inspiring articles in order to get engrafted into the study. Welcome to the purpose drive!

Arise, Go to Nineveh!

Now the word of the Lord came unto Jonah, the son of Amittai, saying 'Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city and cry against it, for their wickedness is come up before me'.

But Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa, and found a ship going to Tarshish. So he paid the fare and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. (Jonah 1:1-3 KJV)

The Great City
As far as God was concerned, Nineveh was a great city. But they had a problem that rose unto God, which may not have been obvious to the people. The problem was sin. Evil practices plagued the land. Destruction loomed, but God wanted to help them. Someone had to stand in and proclaim God's counsel.

God 'Uses' People
On the Earth realm, God uses people to accomplish His will. If God descended on Nineveh, nothing would be left of the great city. So, someone of their kind had to represent God.

Now look inward, look around, what is there within, that has greatness but is plagued by darkness and sin.
Sin demotes. No matter the greatness inherent in someone or something, if sin is haboured and God's word is not honoured, it shall come down to naught. It's a matter of time.

That of Nineveh was a 40 days ultimatum. To avert the danger, someone had to stand in. Yes, you can intercede in prayers at least, if not directly. Do not flee like Jonah did. If you have, then, repent and obey.

You Represent God in the Place of Purpose
Purpose here can be rephrased 'assignment'. Assignment could be temporary, based in a particular need. God has chosen men and women at particular times to perform temporary tasks. (This oftentimes is in line with their main purpose).

When you respond to this call, you represent Him. And He backs you up on the assignment. It is the most fulfilling: doing what God wants or has appointed you to do.

Do Not Flee
To flee like Jonah did is to sign up for frustration, and endless troubles. Unfortunately, you endanger everyone around you when you are off-course.

The people on the ship lost their properties, because when the storm from God beat on the ship (because of Jonah), the sailors sought to lighten the ship by throwing some items overboard.

Agree to represent God where He has sent you. (It may not directly be to preach, but stand for righteousness, and lead an exemplary life.)

You may not know, many lives are dependent on you. Do not wait to be arrested or swallowed like Jonah. In whatever field or purpose God has placed in your hands, comply. Represent Him there. This is great fulfillment and it is pleasing to God. Stay blessed. See you in the next edition. Selah.
Stay safe.

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