Thoughts on Sacrifice, Gladness and Calling
Does God want from us sacrifice or something else? What do you think? I think, God’s will is always good for us and some times it really does require sacrifice. But sacrifice should not be our end goal; we are not to religiously prove our worth or earn our salvation. Our goal should be God himself and leave the details of our life plan to him. Just being in the will of God is a blessing beyond belief.
The wise counsel God gives when I’m awake
is confirmed by my sleeping heart.
Day and night I’ll stick with God;
I’ve got a good thing going and I’m not letting go.
I’m happy from the inside out,
and from the outside in, I’m firmly formed.
You canceled my ticket to hell—
that’s not my destination!
Now you’ve got my feet on the life path,
all radiant from the shining of your face.
Ever since you took my hand,
I’m on the right way.
(Psalm 16:7-11, MSG)
Frederick Buechner has said “the place God calls you to is where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” The famous quote does not say “the place God call you to is where your worst nightmares will come true”. God knows where you gifts lie and he knows what brings you joy. He wants to use you where your deep gladness reside. Because there’s no lack of needs in this world. There’s no point for God to use you in places that would not fit you, other people’s gifts fit in those places. God has a perfect plan for everyone.
God is calling you to use your life and gifts for his glory. Wherever the place is that’s where you will be most fruitful. So follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. Use the fruit of the Spirit as guidance counselor. Trust that you will always find fullness of joy in God’s presence. Let God show you all he has for you.
Gracious God,
Thank you for knowing us inside out.
Be praised for having a perfect plan for each of us
where our deep gladness meets the needs of the world.
Guide us clearly, Lord.
Lead us to become all you’ve created us to be.
May nothing prevent us to do the tasks
you’ve already prepared for us to do.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
Q4U: What are your thoughts on sacrifice, gladness and calling?
Be blessed, my fellow pilgrim, as you embrace God’s plan for your life!
Image courtesy of Mari-Anna Stålnacke. Linking up with Unite the Bloggersphere and #tellhisstory.
2 thoughts on “Thoughts on Sacrifice, Gladness and Calling”
You cut to the heart of the matter, Mari-Anna: “But sacrifice should not be our end goal; we are not to religiously prove our worth or earn our salvation. Our goal should be God himself and leave the details of our life plan to him.” Amen, sister. We often confuse sacrifice as the end goal, but as you say, the end goal is always God himself!
Thanks for stopping by and commenting, Lisa. Always a pleasure! Abundant blessings to you, sis!