“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Ephesians 2:10 ESV
God’s word makes it quite clear that we are here for a purpose. He plans our time on earth. Many of the circumstances we go through are necessary for us to grow in the Lord and be used by Him to help others.
Ask God
Recently, a dear friend texted me. She said she had taken her husband to the ER with the help of her sister-in-law. They thought he was having a heart attack. While sitting in the ER, she kept asking God, why am I here? Why am I here on this night, at this hour?
Seek His Plan
Immediately, it felt like a gut punch to me. The guilt I felt because I would have been stressed over the fact that my husband may be very sick. Or feeling sorry for myself that I was at the ER in the middle of the night. My friend, a devout disciple of Christ, sought His plan and was seeking a reason for this disruption in her life by asking how can You use me tonight.
People Are In Need
It made me think of all the times that God may have had a plan to use me in certain situations, but I was not paying attention. At the grocery store, I usually try to stay focused on purchasing my list and getting away. If I would allow for the Holy Spirit to guide me, there probably are people in the store that need an encouraging word or some help with selecting or purchasing their groceries. I haven’t bothered to ask God why I was there that day and time or better yet, why these people are there at the same time I was. Why am I here Lord?
“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.”
Proverbs 19:21 ESV
God’s Plan
Then I think of the times my doctor’s appointment has run late. I usually sit there aggravated that they are not on time. Perhaps I should ask God what He has in mind for me to do. Why am I here Lord? There may be someone in the room that needs to hear a scripture or prayer. God’s plan, not mine.
People Need Prayer
As my friend was searching in prayer for the reason for her presence in the ER, a woman came in visibly upset. The friend and sister in law began inquiring if she was hurting. The woman said she was upset because her brother was there and very sick. My friend asked if they could pray with her. They prayed with the woman and when they had finished praying, the woman expressed her appreciation because she needed prayer at that moment.
Actively Seek Someone to Tell About Jesus
How often have we missed helping someone in need of a prayer, a touch, a word? We tend to get in such a hurry and so busy. Ask the Lord why He has placed you where you are at that moment, that day. Actively seek a person to share the love of Christ.
Do Something Matthew West
Paula Wallace
