Seek The Father's Approval

2 Timothy 2:15

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Emphasis Mine

The word of God is very clear about what the Father approves. When in doubt about what the Father approves or disapproves, the scriptures should be our “go to manual for reference”. An example is 2 Timothy 2:15. A person who desires to live a godly lifestyle is one who is constantly looking for opportunities to know what the Father approves and do it. In this case, “study”; other translations use the words “be diligent”, “work hard”, “do your best” and more. In spite of the translation used, the outcome is the same “follow a cause that the Father approves”. If the Father approves of it, the implication is that it is an excellent route to follow.

A lifestyle of sacrifice is also approved by the Father. As you take steps to live godly and increase in godliness, sacrifices will be necessary. There will be a need to distinguish yourselves in the midst of people and things. Not associating with everyone, not participating in every activity offered and not consuming everything available or offered to them.

Romans 12:1 (KJV)

I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

Emphasis Mine.

Daniel distinguished himself by doing likewise. Scriptures records in Daniel 6:3 (NIV)…

Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.

Emphasis Mine.

Daniel 1:8 (KJV)

But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.

Emphasis Mine.

Does the Father approve of the things you do, the sacrifices you offer, the lifestyle you have chosen to live, the words you speak? Examine your life and make the changes. Amen!

Purpose Driven

2 Timothy 3:12 (NKJV)

Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

But remember this, the Lord will deliver you. Amen.

The manner of persecution may vary from person to person but the reason will be the same – a decision to live godly in Christ Jesus. Remember it says in Christ Jesus. So, be rest assured that you will not be applauded by the crowd as you begin making changes because according to societal norms, you are swimming against the tides.

One of the first steps to excellence will be desiring to live God’s purpose for your life.

Knowing why you were created is a lifelong journey. It is a necessary part of our walk with the Father, not a mysterious one. Understanding God’s purpose for your life can only be possible when you keep company with Him on a consistent basis. It is an imperative and meaningful way of living life. The great men and women of God whom the Father uses to influence our lives this day were people who understood God’s purpose for their lives and functioned in it without shame.

2 Timothy 1:11 (NLT)

And God chose me to be a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher of this Good News.

Emphasis Mine

This statement was made by someone who understood why he was living on earth.

Paul, was one of such who understood the reason for his creation. Paul functioned in all fivefold ministries. However, this scripture is an example to let us know that it is possible for the living in Christ to know and function confidently in their God-given purpose. That is exactly what Paul did.

The benefits of living a purpose driven life are enormous. A person living a purpose driven life desires to see others do likewise and will encourage others to be purpose driven as well. In many ways, Paul encouraged Timothy, Titus and more to function in their God-given purpose.

2 Timothy 4:5 (NKJV)

 But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

Emphasis Mine

Titus 1:5 (NKJV)

For this reason, I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you.

Emphasis Mine

Add meaning to your life by living purposefully because God created you for a purpose.