Tools With a Purpose
Sometimes when I look at my tools, I recall times when I used them for the wrong purpose. The results were less than desirable. Hammers, saws, screwdrivers, pipe wrenches, table saws, band saws, and scrolling saws have different purposes. So do bolts, screws, and nails. Even different kinds of nails have different purposes. When these are used for the right purpose and with the correct safety precautions, the results are terrific.
Life has a Purpose
Life has a purpose too. Think about it this way: Everything that exists has purpose. This includes the sun, the moon, the stars, water, oxygen, butterflies, bees, flowers, seeds, my hands, my feet, my lungs, my stomach, gravity, fire, and time. To miss the purpose of your life is a tragic waste. It is like using a saw to hammer or to use your hands to try to walk.
The question is, “how do I determine my purpose?” The answer, I believe, can be found in God’s creation (the things he spoke into existence), his word (by this I mean the right interpretation of the Old and New Testament scriptures), and the living Word (John 1:1), Jesus. The first one should cause you to ask some questions, the second one should help you find the answers, and the third one is the way, the truth, and the life for the person who can have right purpose.
How to Identify a Follower of Jesus
A follower of Jesus receives and believes his word. They have accurate biblical theology.
Belief based on an accurate biblical theology is manifested by behavior. Jesus said this: “He who comes from above is above all. He who is of the earth belongs to the earth and speaks in an earthly way. He who comes from heaven is above all. He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony. Whoever receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true. For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure. The Father loves the Son and has given all things into his hand. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.” John 3:31-36
“The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Five Minute Friday
This post is part of the weekly Five Minute Friday link-up.
All scripture passages are from the English Standard Version except as otherwise noted.
Know Your Flocks & Herds 