Chapt. 6 - Life Is a Temporary Assignment

"Lord, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered, and that my life is fleeing away." Psalms 39:4

TEMPORARY! A concept about our earthly life that is hard to grasp. We live in this world, it consumes us, it even sometimes controls us, but we are just visitors. We are literally passing through, like a pilgrim on its journey. Realizing that life is a temporary assignment should radically alter our values. We have to keep focused on eternal things but yet live in the present. My brother always says, "Hold on loosely" and that is so true. Everyday we are closer to our heavenly home but still living on our earthly home. What adjustments do I (we) need to make? Where is my focus? Where is my treasure?

I pray that we can give everyday to God as an offering, knowing that every moment counts on earth but yet stay focused on heaven. Someday that will be our permanent residence and our temporary assignment will be over.

Chapter 5- Seeing Life from God's View

How do you see your life?

God absolutely tests our character, faith, obedience, love, integrity, and loyalty. If he didn't, how would we condition our heart, mind, and conscience to guide us? Have you ever noticed how your mind and conscience function differently at times when you don't feel God's presence?

Prior to reading this chapter, I hadn't given much thought to the 'eternal implications' of life. As I go back over the chapter, my thoughts linger on Job and how he endured the harshest of tests- and passed them all. How I admire his character...

Reading through this chapter has also allowed me personally to realize that though I have failed many tests throughout my life- Jesus died for me. That means I get do-overs...and God will continue to test me. What a privilidge it is that we get more than 1 chance to learn and grow in Christ. God is good!

Chapter 4 - Made to Last Forever

When I look at a beautiful endless sunset, I often think of what heaven will be like. Yes, this life is not all there is. This chapter challenges us to live life differently with eternity in mind and our hearts focused on God.

This subject of eternity makes us deal with some important topics like heaven and hell. The PDL reminds us that our relationship with God on earth will determine our relationship to him in eternity. I am surprised that some people aren't thinking more about life after death - eternity. We can't live in denial of death because it is inevitable. We need to think about the reality of mortality everyday so we live our lives to it's fullest. Not in fear, but focused on the inheritance we will receive with Jesus. Everyday on earth is a opportunity to serve God and a day closer to heaven.

We were made to last forever with our Savior ... His love, forgiveness and salvation are a gift for all of us.

Chapter 3- (con't) Benefits of Becoming PURPOSE Driven

Once you become consciously aware of what is driving you, it's easier to put things into perspective. Putting things into perspective helps us not only to recognize, but to realize the benefits of living a PURPOSE driven life.

The book talks about the following benefits:
1) It gives meaning to your life.
2) It simplifies your life.
3) It focuses your life.
4) It motivates your life.
5) It prepares you for eternity.

Can you think of any other benefits of being purpose driven?

Chapter 3- What Drives Your Life?

This really is a long chapter and there is so much to cover. I think we will do it in segments. In the first segment we'll talk about the driving forces and how each of us are (or have been) affected by them. Mid-week I'll post a second segment that talks about the 'benefits of purpose driven living.'

I put some deep thought into this chapter. At various times in my life, I have been driven by all 5 of the things mentioned- along with a few that weren't mentioned. The main point is that SOMETHING drives each one of us. What drives you? Does it have to be something negative in nature? No, it doesn't. Suppose the purpose of this chapter is to shed light on the negative driving forces so that we can put them to rest- allowing us to focus on the positive forces that drive us toward our purpose?

How many of us are driven by guilt?

Of the ones listed, this is probably the most predominant for me. Not so much because I was 'running from regrets and hiding shame' but because I have always felt that I have to compromise my opinion, decision, or position to avoid conflict or hurt feelings. If I don't base my decisions on what's best for everyone else involved- regardless of my own personal best interests, I feel guilty. Although I understand and appreciate that my sins have been forgiven (Psalm 32:1), I do still feel somewhat guilty for the sins of my past. Perhaps subconsciously I hold on to the guilt just to make sure I don't make the same mistakes again. Apparently, this is something I need to work on...

How many of us are driven by resentment and anger?

There have definitely been times in my life when I was resentful and angry. One thing I can honestly say is that I just can't stay mad. I've tried! It doesn't work for me. I try to view that as a blessing- though it sometimes seems more like a curse. I absolutely love the line in PDL that says "those who have hurt you in the past cannot continue to hurt you now unless you hold on to the pain through resentment." How true is that? This paragraph reminded me of "The Lion King" where Rafiki whacked Simba over the head & when asked 'why?' he said 'it doesn't matter, it's in the past!'

How many of us are driven by fear?

I'm guilty again! I'm sure I have missed some great opportunities because of being afraid to step out of my comfort zone. I've been known to scare myself to death with 'what if this' and 'what if that'. It's time to get over it so I can get on with it!

How many of us are driven by materialism?

Now, of the five, this is probably the least of my concerns. Those of you who know me, know that I'm not very materialistic. I am satisfied if I can make enough money to pay the bills. I drive my cars until they die, I shop at Goodwill, and for goodness sakes I still have Grandma's 30 year old carpet! Don't get me wrong, I like nice things- I just don't have to have them. In 1997 I learned that "the most valuable things in life are not things!" and that "you can't take it with you". So, I'm content knowing that I have security in my relationship with God.

How many of us are driven by the need for approval?

In my younger days I struggled with this more so than now. But I figured out that I was never going to meet everyones standards- so I lived by mine. As the book puts it, "one key to failure is to try to please everyone." I do have to admit that kudos are nice every now and then.

What else drives you? is it a positive or negative force?

Chapter 2 - You are not an accident - right?

Amen to this title! This chapter validates my life, my (His) purpose, and my Creator. For me this subject is very personal because I wasn't a "planned" pregnancy. My parents always called me an unexpected surprise - but I wasn't planned in their book. My brothers were 16 & 18 and a baby girl wasn't in the "plan." They always loved me and called me a gift - but I did rock their world. (My mom told me later in life that she was in shock most of her pregnancy while my Dad was tickled handing out cigars months before I came.)

Isn't it funny how we think we are in control of our destiny? Like the PDL says "Many children are unplanned by their parents, but they are not unplanned by God. God never does anything accidentally, and He never makes mistakes, He has a reason for everything He creates."

"I am your Creator. You were in my care even before you were born." Isaiah 44:2

Nothing in your life is arbitrary! He divinely planned me. He created you - He designed you - He loves you ! Let's not struggle with our significance but embrace it. Let's thank God for creating us, giving us life and be excited about His purpose in our journey .... ARE YOU IN ?