"Pray on Purpose"

Most of humanity wants to believe they are here for some kind of purpose. Preferably one that has an enough of an impact that we are remembered by those we care about. A life that lacks purpose can lead to depression and diminishes the value that should be ours. The God who created us did so on purpose. He gave you life on purpose and wants you to both realize and enjoy your purpose for being here. Over the past few blog posts we have been reviewing Matthew 6:9-13, commonly known as the Lord's Prayer. As we come toward the end of our study we find this final phrase, "For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen." You will not find it as easily in the NIV or ESV Bible translations for there is some academic question as to whether the phrase belongs. We are going to accept the long standing tradition and include it. The point here is not to enter into a discussion concerning textual criticism but to recognize that the closing phrase is a pretty good way to end any prayer. If you do not think it belongs you can find the same encouragement elsewhere in Scripture.

If we take this instruction seriously we will not only have a prayer to follow we also have purpose in life. Fellowship with our Heavenly Father is rewarding, comforting, and provides direction. The truth that the God of all creation finds great pleasure in having you as a child and looks forward to talking with you is a pretty good way to boost your personal value quotient. This Heavenly Father also has a kingdom yet to come, as well as a kingdom in the present. Our prayer for this kingdom to advance calls us to be involved as kingdom citizens. We also partake in the power provided to advance this kingdom. Acts 1:8, "But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” To provide a witness of an eternal kingdom with no death, pain, or sorrow, seems like a rewarding purpose for life. The reminder of power also points back to the "daily bread" phrase where we were prompted to reflect on our dependence and God's constant provision. God knows our needs and has the power to provide. In a world filled with reasons to feel insecure we have assurance that the Lord is involved, He is aware and He cares for His children.

God's glory is likewise never ending. Colossians 3:4 tells us we will share in that glory, "And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory." The wonder of Who the Lord is, is also ours to share in. 1 John 3:2, "Dear friends, we are already God's children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is." We shall be like Him for we shall see Him as He is. Quite the promise. Our call, our purpose, is to be involved in His kingdom, His power and His glory, forever. Not a bad purpose. In all we do, in all we say, in the life that He has given to us we have a purpose. We set His name apart as a name above all names. We labor, with joy, to see His kingdom advanced. We rest in His daily provision as we provide for others. We forgive in such a way that others can see how God forgives. We overcome tests and temptation by coming to Him for protection and rest. We are not just looking to the here and now for purpose but a purpose that is forever. Amen!