Compassionate Love: Displaying Compassion for Those Who Struggle with Mental Illness   (c)2017 Nancy Virden, Always The Fight Ministries

Your significance is not up for debate. However, do you wish your life had more meaning? Do you wonder if you are making a mark on the world? In parts one, two, and three of this four-part series, you learn some options for developing a meaningful existence, and for knowing that you are.  This is the last part. 

(4) Choose the promise

No doubt you have heard the phrase, “God has a plan for your life.” According to the “born-again” Christian viewpoint it is true, however only by surrendering to God can we live it out.  This may sound like only so much hogwash to some people. To those who believe or are willing to believe, this is the essence of hope for us, our families, and the world.

The short of it is that God’s plan for each person (as explained well in the 5 chapters of  1 John) is faith in Jesus Christ for eternal salvation. Beyond that, we are called to live in love toward God and each other.

Love. What a concept. Pure love is patient and kind, and does not envy or boast. It is not proud or rude. It is not looking out for #1 all the time, but is invested in the wellbeing of others. Love does not grow angry quickly, and holds no grudges.  It does not get excited about things that displease God, but is happy when truth wins out.  Love is protective, hopeful,  trusts wisely,  and perseveres. God-honoring love never fails.* 

That sounds amazing, does it not? This world could use more love like that.

When we step away from ourselves and surrender to God’s plan,  he turns what we may perceive as straw into gold. This is the promise that makes it clear our significance is not decided by circumstances or other people:

Romans 8:28. “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” 

You do not have the power to know everything good that results from obeying God. Nevertheless, by choosing how you want to feel,  wisely selecting a standard for measuring significance,  and living by your values, you will know you have a meaningful existence.   

By grasping God’s promise, you can be at peace, believing it is all worth it.   

Today’s Helpful Word

*Based on 1 Corinthians 13:4-8