Stewardship - Thursday December 16

Although we have grown accustomed to many limitations, we can often become frustrated when an unexpected limitation is presented to us. If we get sick, our car breaks down or we break a leg, we can feel cheated, due to our expectations of the way things "should" be.

Sometimes we are too comfortable in our acceptance of given limitations and should not be content as they can be barriers to our purpose and accomplishments. Other times, we are defeated because we have inaccurate expectations of the way life is suppose to be. Think about times when you are frustrated because of limitations not reaching your expectations. Also think about limitations you have that you should challenge in light of the momentum of your purpose. Really try to be honest with yourself and sort out what expectations you have that are healthy and which aren't.

God made us with limitations. A good steward has a strong understanding of what they can and can't do with these limitations, in light of what they should do according to their given purpose.

Prayer: Pray that God will search your heart and help enlighten you to properly view the expectations in your life.

Stewarship: Saturday December 12

Today we will process these topics in the context of relational influence.

Think about the people that have helped to define these values in yourself and the effect that had on you and maybe others you know of. Have you or can you be that same sort of influence to someone else?

Are there people in your life now that share these values and maybe a similar purpose? Who could you share these ideas with that could help support you?

Prayer: Pray that God would show you the power of relationships and that He would help you find your place among your peers as a person of influence and a person to be influenced.

Stewardship - Tuesday December 8

Think about the Purpose Statement you created yesterday. Considering
that God created you and has unique and specific plans for you, what do
you think God's Purpose Statement would be for you? Do you think that
would differ from the Purpose Statement you made for yourself? If so
why?

On a broader level, what do you think God's Purpose Statement might be
for all of humanity at this particular time considering our current
culture and events. What about His purpose for the church in this
culture?

Prayer: Pray that God's mind and purpose will be increasingly revealed
in your life.

Stewardship - Monday December 7

Monday
In the first service of the month Lisa talked about writing a Purpose Statement when she was in college which helped her focus on a life direction. As a result she mentioned many major accomplishments that have allowed her to create significant change in the world around her.

Today think about a Purpose Statement for yourself. Be BOLD! Consider your passions, reoccuring ideas and brainstorms. Consider your most important values. Give yourself permission to be you! Remember this isn't a Plan, this is a purpose which will help you focus decisions and plans in your future. Don't worry about locking yourself into this for the rest of your life, this can change as your life changes. This is for you alone.

Prayer: Pray that God will help you sort through your deepest values and help you create a guide for your future.