Elevating Our Purpose
Week # 3:Stepping Into Our Purpose

Day 16 Miracles in the Mundane

“Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.”
‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭4‬:‭10‬a

Mastering the elementary things and applying it in our everyday life may feel mundane, trivial, tedious but that is truly where we experience the elevation of our purpose and the power to boldly walk into our destinies.

What if your destiny is just to be a faithful Husband, or a Loving Wife, A good Father, A good Mother, an obedient son or daughter, an honest accountant, a compassionate physician, a loving Teacher, a media personality with integrity, or an upstanding citizen, a God fearing man or woman in society, etc… May not seem that exciting, I’m sure.
Sometimes the miracles are in the mundane!
Many of us when it comes to us walking in our into our God given destinies we’re looking for the extraordinary, the fantastic, the cosmic moments that we read about in the Bible to take place in our lives as well and for us to do. And though, yes, God can and may do that in our lives, But how many of you know sometimes the miracles God performs are in the everyday mundaneness of life! He wants to use you, right where you are with what you have in your hand, like He did Moses and His staff..

For example, throughout our 21 day fast thus far, we’ve heard of characters like Moses, Joshua, Esther or even King David experiencing God’s mighty hand at work and walking into their destinies, but seldomly do we hear about a man named Obed-Edom. Some of you reading this may not even know that he was a character in the Bible! His story is found in 2Samuel 6:1-15 and expounded upon in 1Chronicles 13:13-14; 26:4-6. Obed-Edom was a simple man from the tribe of Levi. We first read about Obed-Edom when David was bringing the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem for a more permanent resting place.

While David and 30,000 of his men were rejoicingly moving the ark back to Jerusalem, one of David’s men Uzzah (which his father had housed the Ark for over 20years) reached out and tried to support the Ark for from falling to the ground! The Bible says, “the Lord’s anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down, and he died there beside the ark of God”. While this punishment may seem extreme to us, the Israelites had been warned for centuries that the ark of the covenant was holy to the Lord. Only Levites could carry it, only high priests could minister before it, and no one was to look inside it.

David became angry over this and became afraid of the Lord, and so he refused to take the ark to Jerusalem himself! Instead, David placed the ark in the home of Obed-Edom, and it remained there for 3 months. During that time though, the Lord blessed Obed-Edom and his entire household! It’s safe to assume that Obed-Edom was just a God-fearing man and he showed proper reverence for the ark (unlike Uzzah who may have become overly familiar with it while it remained in his father’s house for those 20 years!). Because King David saw this, the Bible says the he went back to retrieve the Ark and transport it to Jerusalem but this time with the proper reverence and was no longer afraid! A simple man simply honoring God in the elementary things, was the perfect example God used to change the heart of the King! Obed-edom fulfilled his purpose and his destiny by just faithfully observing the elementary things!

So …
Do you Struggle to Love God and receive His Love for you? Do you struggle to love your neighbor, your family, your brother and/or sister in Christ, or even your enemies? Do you struggle to live a life of obedience to God? Are you afraid to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ because of the backlash, the rejection or the persecution you’ll receive? Are you struggling to read/study/memorize/apply His word consistently, spend time in prayer so that you may know Him and all that He has said about you and promised you?

My brothers and sisters, whoever you are, whatever your occupation or position in life, living out these elementary principles ARE our purpose in God and our destinies in Christ! Because our destiny ultimately is to be with Jesus forever in Heaven, and one day everything will pass away, but it is these things that have eternal value!

Elevating Our Purpose
Week#3

What Can Hinder Us From Stepping into Our Purpose
Day 17 Delayed Obedience and Complacency

Stepping into our purpose requires an active faith and an obedient spirit. As we close out the last week of fasting, we must guard our hearts against the practice of delayed obedience and complacency that can hinder us from elevating our purpose and stepping out in faith to fulfill our destiny.

Delayed Obedience and Complacency
“The Lord spoke to Jonah son of Amittai: “Nineveh is a big city. I have heard about the many evil things the people are doing there. So go there and tell them to stop doing such evil things.” But Jonah tried to run away from the Lord. He went to Joppa…” Jonah 1:1-3 (ERV)
God gave Jonah an instruction in Jonah 1:2, but Jonah didn’t obey until the account in Jonah 3:3. While we are not sure of the exact timeline between these chapters, the sequence of events that follows after God’s instruction to Jonah shows that everywhere he went while running away from his assignment, he brought chaos and misfortune to those places until he heeded the call.

Do you know that delayed obedience is still disobedience? Partial obedience or incomplete obedience is still disobedience. Pastor Rick Warren once wrote, “Imagine if a parent tells a child to do something and he or she says, “I’ll think about it.” Wouldn’t there be consequences? But we do that to God all the time. God says he wants us to do something, and we say, “I’ll think about it.” Delayed obedience is not only dangerous; God is not pleased when we try to run away from our purpose and calling.
In John 9:4 (NLT), “We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work.”
There is a shelf-life to everything. Your assignment here on earth is not an open-ended one; it is time-bound. The Psalmist says, “Without delay, I hurry to obey your commands (Psalm 119:60).” When you look at elevating your purpose through the lenses of time and its brevity, it should arouse a sense of urgency and a focused devotion. Delayed obedience is dangerous.

Complacency will hinder our purpose. Those who live to the fullest of God’s call for their life are those who embrace their purpose early. Jesus was already at the temple at the age of twelve learning from the Rabbis. While we still have the strength and vitality, creativity and drive to go after our dreams and God’s purpose for our life, we must do it swiftly because the night is coming. When we all get to the “departing lounge” of life and look back in our twilight years, we should all be able to say, I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith, just as Apostle Paul declared.
Working in your purpose honours God. Please, stop putting it off. Remember, your purpose is not just about you; it’s also about the people God has sent you to.

Mordecai said to Esther, “Esther, don’t think that just because you live in the king’s palace you will be the only Jew to escape. If you keep quiet now, help and freedom for the Jews will come from another place…And who knows, maybe you have been chosen to be the queen for such a time as this.” Esther 4:13-14(ERV) You’ve been called and divinely equipped for such a time as this; it is time to arise and heed the call, it is time to stop running, it is time to say to God, I am ready, use me, Lord!

What is He asking you to do or become? Will you answer His call without delay to elevate and step into your purpose? Remember obedience is worth more than sacrifice.

-Beraca Baptist Church

Elevating Our Purpose

Week#3
What Can Hinder Us From Stepping into Our Purpose

Day 18 When Pleasure Becomes a Pursuit

The hallmark of a meaningful life is not just in the pleasurable moments we share with the world; it is in the fulfilment of the purpose we are created for and our contribution to humankind in our given capacity. Yes, God wants us to enjoy life and enjoy it to the fullest (John 10:10), but not at the expense of our divine purpose or calling. King Solomon is a good example of one who allowed his enjoyment to overshadow his purpose. He said, “I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure…” (Ecc. 2:10 NIV). These are hedonistic tendencies that always limit God’s calling on our life.

Life is a mixture of pleasure and pain, and the ultimate goal of life is not just living for pleasure. At any standard or level, King Solomon had a good time. There was nothing wrong with that, but there comes a time when good is good enough, and this was the wisdom gap for the King. In 1 Kings 11:11 (NKJV), the Bible says, “Therefore the Lord said to Solomon, “Because you have done this, and have not kept My covenant and My statutes, which I have commanded you, I will certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to your servant.” Everything that the King built was torn apart just after his death. Sometimes with great wisdom also comes great foolishness; what a strange paradox.

Human desire is insatiable, but anyone who will rise to greatness and fulfill God’s purpose for their life must carefully curate their options and discipline their appetite. For Daniel, it was denying himself the King’s food (Daniel 1:8-16). For Joseph, it was refusing intimacy with Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39). Everything that can bring pleasure also has an inherent power to bring about damage and downfall. It was Judas’s love for money, Samson’s love for prostitutes, and Noah’s love for alcohol, to name a few. Every “Superman” has their kryptonite; wisdom demands that they don’t play around it.
As we enjoy the fullness of life God has given to us, the question is, how far is too far? It is when our godly standard is compromised, just as King Solomon. When our morals, integrity, ethics, and values become questionable in the name of pleasure, that is too far. Our purpose becomes endangered and is at risk when pleasures become the ultimate goal or the driver of our life. “For what shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and losses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36 NKJV).

Everything good must be enjoyed moderately. Otherwise, stepping into our purpose stands the risk of being hindered. If your heart is convicted at these words, take it to Jesus and ask for His power to be made strong in you to overcome anything that is hindering your purpose.

-Beraca Baptist Church

Elevating Our Purpose

Week#3
What Can Hinder Us From Stepping into Our Purpose

Day 18 When Pleasure Becomes a Pursuit

The hallmark of a meaningful life is not just in the pleasurable moments we share with the world; it is in the fulfilment of the purpose we are created for and our contribution to humankind in our given capacity. Yes, God wants us to enjoy life and enjoy it to the fullest (John 10:10), but not at the expense of our divine purpose or calling. King Solomon is a good example of one who allowed his enjoyment to overshadow his purpose. He said, “I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure…” (Ecc. 2:10 NIV). These are hedonistic tendencies that always limit God’s calling on our life.

Life is a mixture of pleasure and pain, and the ultimate goal of life is not just living for pleasure. At any standard or level, King Solomon had a good time. There was nothing wrong with that, but there comes a time when good is good enough, and this was the wisdom gap for the King. In 1 Kings 11:11 (NKJV), the Bible says, “Therefore the Lord said to Solomon, “Because you have done this, and have not kept My covenant and My statutes, which I have commanded you, I will certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to your servant.” Everything that the King built was torn apart just after his death. Sometimes with great wisdom also comes great foolishness; what a strange paradox.

Human desire is insatiable, but anyone who will rise to greatness and fulfill God’s purpose for their life must carefully curate their options and discipline their appetite. For Daniel, it was denying himself the King’s food (Daniel 1:8-16). For Joseph, it was refusing intimacy with Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39). Everything that can bring pleasure also has an inherent power to bring about damage and downfall. It was Judas’s love for money, Samson’s love for prostitutes, and Noah’s love for alcohol, to name a few. Every “Superman” has their kryptonite; wisdom demands that they don’t play around it.
As we enjoy the fullness of life God has given to us, the question is, how far is too far? It is when our godly standard is compromised, just as King Solomon. When our morals, integrity, ethics, and values become questionable in the name of pleasure, that is too far. Our purpose becomes endangered and is at risk when pleasures become the ultimate goal or the driver of our life. “For what shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and losses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36 NKJV).

Everything good must be enjoyed moderately. Otherwise, stepping into our purpose stands the risk of being hindered. If your heart is convicted at these words, take it to Jesus and ask for His power to be made strong in you to overcome anything that is hindering your purpose.

-Beraca Baptist Church

Elevating Our Purpose
Week # 3

Stepping Into Our Purpose
Day 19: Purpose with a Closed Door

Part of stepping out into our purpose is seeking guidance and direction from God in prayer. God always answers every prayers – either with a “Wait”, “Yes” or “No”. What happens when purpose comes with a “No” for answer?

Scripture: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21 (NIV)

NO!
Believe it or not the word “NO” is a complete sentence. However, (in our human nature) it’s not a word we desire to hear, especially when it comes to chasing our dreams… elevating our purpose. Matthew 7:7 reads, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find: knock and the door will be opened to you.” To be clear, all of God’s promises are “YES” and “AMEN” according to his individual will for your life.

Just Imagine: You had a plan. Maybe it was the job you thought would launch your future endeavors. Maybe it’s the relationship you thought was “the one.” Maybe it’s the passion project or promotion you just knew — knew with all your heart — would give you a sense of accomplishment. We’ve all been there—praying with hope, planning with excitement, only to be met with closed doors.

So… what happens when God says, ‘NO’?

What happens when it vanishes? And you are left in silence. In that silence and sudden redirection, what are you thinking? Are you giving up on your dream… your purpose. Are you giving up on God? Remember Moses. God gave him a purpose and the people a promise, but he was met with multiple “NOs” from Pharaoh on this journey. Exodus 5:22-23 reads, “Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Why Lord have you brought trouble on this people? Is this why you sent me? Ever since I went to Pharaoh to speak in your name, he has brought trouble on this people, and you have not rescued your people at all.”

Did Moses just encounter a closed door while trying to fulfill his God-given purpose. Moses stepped into Egypt with a divine calling and a clear message from God: “Let My people go.” But instead Pharaoh responded by slamming the door shut, saying “NO.” Also, Pharaoh’s demand more labor. Moses expressed his frustration and doubts — questioning why God sent him to be brave, have faith and step forward when there was no deliverance forthcoming.

It can hurt. Moses must have been extremely confused. We expected God to open doors. We pray. We obey. We step out in faith. But nothing. “Lord, did I hear You right?”

But here’s the truth: Purpose is not a destination. It’s a daily walk with God. When God says no, it’s never to harm us, but to guide us. His “no” is always wrapped in love, even if it’s hard to see at the moment or even accept. His “NO” aligns with his will.
Think about Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane. He prayed, “Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me.” (Matthew 26:39). But the Father’s will was different. The cross was the only way to bring salvation. Jesus accepted the “no” with surrender and trust.

What’s next:

1. Give up the idol — When the dream becomes the destination instead of God, we set ourselves up for failure and frustration. Let Him redefine what success and purpose looks like in your life.
2. ⁠Ask God for clarity— instead of asking, “God, will You Bless this plan?” Ask “God what is your plan?”
3. ⁠Pay attention to what God is teaching and building in you. God may be shaping your patience, your identity, or your dependence on Him.
4. ⁠Prayer!!!!

Prayer: God, I don’t always understand why You say no—but I want to trust You more than I trust my own plans. When the doors I want don’t open, help me believe that You’re still at work in my story. Grow my faith in the waiting, my strength in the uncertainty, and my hope in You alone. Help me to find purpose not just in what I do, but in who I am becoming with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection Question: What “no” from God are you struggling with right now? What would it look like to trust that He’s got something better ahead?

-Beraca Baptist Church

Elevating Our Purpose
Week # 3
Step Into Our Purpose
Day 20: Intentional Purpose

Isaiah 55: 8-9 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
Throughout the 21 Days, we’ve read several attributes of God.
* God is limitless.
* God is eternal.
* God is a miracle worker.
* God is great and immeasurable
* God is transformative

Let’s add one more to the list: Intentionally Purposeful. The word “Intentional” means something that is done on purpose, with thought and planning. The word “Purpose” means the reason or objective behind something. Therefore, God is Intentionally Purposeful.

Let’s have a moment of reflection: Nothing about God is accidental. From the first words of creation and creation itself (Book of Genesis) to the final promise of eternity (Book of Revelation), God has always moved with purpose – a precise and divine plan. “The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.” — Proverbs 16:4. In other words, WE WERE BORN ON PURPOSE FOR A PURPOSE – TO ACCOMPLISH HIS PURPOSE.

Every detail, delay, and promise in our life is touched by HIS INTENTIONAL HAND. Sometimes that’s hard to believe, especially when we look around and things aren’t turning out the way we planned them. Like leaving Egypt, crossing the Red Sea and wandering around doubting God’s promise. Like being given a promise but faced with the walls of Jericho. Or when you take a leap of faith and take on a $10,000 mortgage with hope that can be paid off. God is not a God of chance. He sees the end from the beginning, therefore he is not reacting to the chaos, rather He is sovereign over it all. Remember, “The Lord is my shepherd.” He walks with us through every middle moment. He walks with intentional love.

What is God’s intentional purpose for me? It’s a question we all wrestle with at some point — especially when life feels confusing, delayed, or painful.
* Truth # 1: Your individual purpose should NOT be separate from God’s purpose, but rather fall under the umbrella of his purpose.
* Truth # 2: When we don’t understand the WHY we can still trust the WHO.

Think of how intentional Jesus was in His life and mission work. He played zero games when it came to accomplishing his father’s business. Jesus even rebuked those who were closest to Him when they tried to interfere with the plans of his Father. He knew the plan God had in place to redeem His people. That’s the mindset we strive to have – Kingdom Mindset. A selfless desire to serve our Heavenly Father by loving people the way God intended (with no expectations). And people ought to be focused and driven to spread the gospel in their thoughts and actions. Knowing that the deeds they perform are not for personal glory but for God’s alone. That is just one part of God’s intentional purpose.

Because God is intentional, we can rest in the following truths.
1. What God started, he will finish it. He planted a seed that will eventually bloom – in His timing. Just look at the life of Joseph—betrayed, enslaved, imprisoned—but in every step, God was preparing him for purpose. Or think of Esther, placed “for such a time as this.” Or Jesus Himself, whose path to resurrection went through a cross. None of it was accidental. And neither is your story.
2. Even with detours, there is still purpose. Keep Working. “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23 (NIV)
3. God himself showed us how to be intentional and walk with purpose. Use his life as an example.

Prayer: Lord, help me to live each day with intentional purpose, rather than operating on autopilot. Let my choices reflect your heart. I want to know You more and reflect on who You are in everything I do. Teach me to trust Your plan, and shape my heart to desire what You desire. Be glorified in my life. I look to you to order my steps. Amen.

-Beraca Baptist Church