Seeing and Pursuing Our Purpose

Text: Colossians 2:1-5 Theme: Paul’s purpose was to help people truly know Christ. Key verses: “My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (v. 2-3) What God said to me: Son, here again, we see Paul’s clear and confident understanding of his purpose in life. He knew what was most important and he passionately struggled toward that goal. Paul wanted others to know my Son. Not just to have met him, Paul desparately desired that people get to know Christ’s qualities – to embrace him, pursue his character, enjoy his friendship, employ his power and wisdom, and ultimately become more like him. Look at some of the words Paul used involving his purpose in these verses. He said he was “struggling;” he wanted them to be “encouraged” and “united” and have “full riches” of “complete understanding.” He was full of “delight” to see their faith in Christ. Dwayne, consider your own heart and mind on any given, average day. Could you use words like these to describe your thoughts and prayers for those I have entrusted you to encourage and help? How often do you even have thoughts and prayers for others, rather than just for yourself and your concerns? You know your purpose. It is to proclaim me to others and help them grow into mature believers who will influence even more to follow me. Yet, how passionately do you pursue that purpose? Look for ways to share me with those around you today. Watch closely. Be ready. I will give you the opportunity to witness and encourage someone if you will but open your spiritual eyes to see. What I said to God: Father, please forgive me. You have read my mail and written my ticket on this one. I didn’t realize how focused I am everyday on my own agenda. No wonder I’m not getting more opportunities to share my faith. I’m not even aware of people’s needs much of the time. Oh Lord, what does all this other stuff matter – my writing, my websites, my so-called ministry - if I’m not actively and daily investing my life in others and being available to personally help someone? May I see a stranger as my neighbor and as my responsibility today. But first of all on this day, may I simply see…