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Acts: Life On Mission – Week 17 – Lasting Purpose
CJ Ward
Lasting Purpose
As we close out the inspiring series Acts: Life on Mission, we delve into the profound truth that our lives are not defined by fleeting successes or failures but by the enduring mission given to us by God. In Week 17, titled “Lasting Purpose”, we reflect on how God’s purpose for us transcends careers, potential, and circumstances.
Embracing Lasting Purpose
In Acts 28:16-31, Paul’s story offers a compelling perspective on living with a lasting purpose. After years of ministry, persecution, and miraculous works, Paul finds himself under house arrest in Rome. Despite his confinement, Paul proclaims the kingdom of God with boldness and without hindrance. His circumstances didn’t limit his purpose; instead, his unwavering faith demonstrated that a lasting purpose is not bound by external conditions.
"He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance."
Mission Beyond Potential
Many of us wrestle with feelings of wasted potential or the pressure to achieve certain milestones. Yet, God’s mission for our lives isn’t contingent upon our achievements or potential. Instead, it is rooted in the simple yet profound call to:
- Be a disciple of Jesus.
- Invite others to become disciples.
Your lasting purpose is not tied to your career or successes. As Paul’s example shows, even under challenging circumstances, we can live out our mission faithfully.
Comparisons Can Distract
It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison. Whether we envy someone else’s career, family, or perceived impact, comparison robs us of the joy and clarity of our own lasting purpose.
Theodore Roosevelt famously said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” But it can also steal our focus from the mission God has entrusted to us. Instead of looking at others, we must remember that our lasting purpose comes from being faithful where God has placed us.
Redeeming the Past
The message of “Lasting Purpose” reminds us that no mistake, failure, or missed opportunity can derail God’s mission for our lives. Romans 8:28 declares, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Your past does not define you, and your purpose is not forfeited by failure. Just as God used Paul, a former persecutor of Christians, to spread the gospel, He can redeem your story and align it with His eternal mission.
Living Out Your Mission
To live with a lasting purpose, we must:
- Stay Connected to God: Develop a close relationship with Jesus and spend time in prayer and scripture.
- Act in Faith: Embrace the small, faithful steps that God calls you to daily.
- Trust God’s Sovereignty: Know that God can use every circumstance, even setbacks, for His glory.
As Paul demonstrated, your lasting purpose is not confined to a specific role or career. It is about living as a disciple of Christ and inviting others to join in the journey.
A Call to Action
As we conclude this series, let’s remember that we are called to live lives marked by a lasting purpose. No matter where you are—whether in a workplace, a neighborhood, or at home—your life can make an eternal impact.
"He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
Let’s commit to living on mission, confident that our lives matter because they are grounded in God’s plan. When we trust in His sovereignty and step out in faith, we align ourselves with a purpose that lasts far beyond this life.
Did you like Acts: Life On Mission – Week 17 – Lasting Purpose? If so, check out more of our Sunday teachings here.
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