Psalm 101
His journey from shepherd boy to warrior to king to spiritual leader and statesman.
But the Lord said to Samuel, "Don't judge by a man's face or height, for this is not the one. I don't make decisions the way you do! Men judge by outward appearance, but I look at a man's thoughts and intentions." (1 Samuel 16:7 TLB)
The Bible says from the day forward the Spirit of the Lord came upon him with great power.
He knew this overgrown enemy was no match for God's greatness.
Sometimes those closest to us don't see us according to our best qualities, and don't measure us according to our potential.
We need to help them envision a future for themselves that is paved by possibilities, not pitfalls.
The voice that's telling you God has big plans for your future.
"You're a better man than me."
It was official.
"This is who I will be. This is how I will rule."
His life, at times, was a total mess.
His family was also overcome with chaos and dysfunction.
So what made him different?
He sought God's mercy, and as a result he experienced renewal and restoration.
"I will."
None of us follow our intentions perfectly.
1. Everyone Needs to Craft a Statement of Purpose.
No one accidentally stumbles their way into greatness.
We are to live our lives with intention.
He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. (Colossians 1:28)
Where Faith & Life Connect
2. The Statement of Purpose Needs to be as Defined as Possible.
Holy Spirit, I pray that this day you will fill me with yourself and cause your fruit to ripen in my life: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
To preach and teach and help believers grow in the their faith.
3. We Return to our Statement of Purpose as Often as Necessary.
But he kept finding his way back to the grace of God.
Create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit with me.
He dealt with the struggle by returning to God again and again.
It helps you keep your priorities straight.