HOW TO DISCOVER YOUR PURPOSE Current Capabilities + Marketplace Opportunities QUESTION: WHAT HOLDS YOU BACK FROM A LIFE OF PURPOSE? Creative Tension How does the Bible instruct us to deal with FEAR and live a life of PURPOSE? Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Psalm 23:4 (NIV) “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” A life of purpose is not meant to be EASY QUESTION: What does this have to do with me? What does this have to do with cultivating purpose at New Hope? The CHURCH is the best place to live out your purpose and your calling. Ephesians 4:11–12 (NIV) “So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service…” 1 Corinthians 12:18 (NIV) “But now God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace…” Your purpose was never meant to be lived out in isolation. 4 POINTS ON PURPOSE 1. What You Sow, You Harvest The harvest of a meaningful life is the result of planted seeds of obedience. 2. I Cannot Grow What I Do Not Sow Your calling needs action to come alive. 3. God Does Not Multiply What We Mismanage You don’t need more talent — you need to trust God with what you already have. 4. I Can’t Do Everything, But I Can Do Something God doesn’t call us to do it all — He calls us to do our part. Don’t let your purpose stay parked in your heart. It’s time to put it in motion. God gave you gifts for a reason. Take a step. Join a team. Start somewhere. “Rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their own fruit; the sun does not shine on itself and flowers do not spread their fragrance for themselves. Living for others is a rule of nature. We are all born to help each other. No matter how difficult it is …. life is good when you are happy, but so much better when others are happy because of you.” ~ Pope Francis