We all have a unique and special purpose, and this purpose becomes clearer as we grow in our experiential knowledge of Jesus Christ. In this podcast, Lance reminds us of the foundational gifts that we have been given to help us grow in our relationship with Jesus, thus leading to a life with greater purpose and calling.

Notes:

You were born for a purpose.

Mark Twain said, “The two greatest days of your life are the day you were born and the day you learn why.”

1. You have a purpose.

2. To know this purpose, know God.

3. To fulfill this purpose, be trusting (know God).

4. To fulfill this purpose, be courageous.

5. To fulfill this purpose, be competent.

6. To fulfill this purpose, know what season you’re in.

As one pastor said, “Learning begins at the place of application.”

Remember, as a leader…

1. You teach what you know, you reproduce who you are.

2. You can’t give what you don’t have.

3. You can’t take people where you haven’t been.

Your purpose becomes clearer as you grow in your experiential knowledge of God. In between where you are and the clarity you want and need is trust. Trust, or faith, is the bridge that connects our human behavior to the life-force of Jesus - our living intercessor, Lord and Savior.

Foundational practices for growing in the knowledge of Jesus:

1. God wants to be known.

2. Pride and idolatry stand in the way of knowing God.

3. Jesus reconciled us back to the Father.

4. So what have we been given to experience a deep and meaningful relationship with God?

   • Fellowship with Holy Spirit — “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” 2 Cor. 13:14 NIV

   • The Word of God — “The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” John 1:14, John 6 in Christ, John 15 power of abiding.

   • Prayer — Prayer is formational and legislative (to become and to govern).

   • Hearts of gratitude and worship — Psalm 27:4 is a pursuit in the the midst of battle.

   • Eucharist - John 6:53-58

   • The Body of Christ — 1 Cor. 12:13, “For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body — whether Jew or Gentiles, slave or free — and we were given the one Spirit to drink.”

Application:

1. Be honest about the quality of your life, how you spend your time.

2. Ask God for a desire for these things.

3. Stay faithful to these practices.

4. Share with others what you learn.

Credits: Music - Pumpkin Spice by Audiobinger -- freemusicarchive.org