Today, I want to challenge our hearts to experience the best of what God has for us and embrace the full, rich life He offers. We should live with deep devotion and full commitment to God, understanding that we are meant for more than we often settle for. I want us to understand how to fully align our lives with God’s amazing plan and experience all the blessings He has for us. The Bible tells us in Genesis 1:27 that we are all made in God’s image, meant for greater things than just an ordinary life. Like the eagle that soars high on its wings from Isaiah 40:31, we are meant to rise above the ordinary, powered by God’s Spirit. David’s journey from being a shepherd to becoming a king shows that where we come from doesn’t limit what we can achieve. We all have unique talents meant for important things, and we should follow this path of grace. Jeremiah tells us that God has plans for our peace and well-being, leading us to a fulfilling life.
Recognizing our divine purpose from God gives our lives direction and meaning. When we realize that we are made for more, with a unique mission from God, it changes how we see our lives and what we can achieve. We are not here just to be here; we are here to make a big difference for God’s kingdom. By accepting this truth, we can live with more passion, purpose, and commitment to what God wants us to do. To truly understand and follow our God-given purpose, it’s important that we actively seek what God wants for us. This includes regular prayer, studying the Bible diligently, and being open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. As we grow closer to God and keep seeking His direction, He makes our paths clear and leads us toward fulfilling the special purposes He has for us. This journey of finding and following God’s will is key to living a life that is not only rewarding for us but also contributes greatly to God’s bigger plan.
GO TO www.belmontbaptistchurch.com/sermons and listen to Sunday’s message.
Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
Genesis 1:27, “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.”
In Genesis 1:27, we learn that we are created in God’s image, which means we are made to reflect His character and purpose.
This divine design gives us inherent value and a unique mission.
Being created in God’s image sets us apart from the rest of creation, giving us the ability to reason, make moral decisions, and have a relationship with our Creator.
This privilege comes with the responsibility to live in a way that honors God and fulfills the purpose He has for us.
Understanding that we are made in God’s image should inspire us to live lives that honor Him.
This means making choices that reflect His love, justice, and holiness.
It involves using our talents and opportunities to further His kingdom on earth.
Whether in our personal lives, workplaces, or communities, we should strive to embody the qualities of God, such as kindness, compassion, and integrity.
By doing so, we become living testimonies of God’s grace and truth, drawing others to Him through our actions and words.
I remember when I first realized my purpose was more than just my career.
As a young teenager, I saw the impact of serving others.
I understood that my skills and passions could be used to make a difference for God’s kingdom.
Witnessing the transformation in the lives I served made me see that my life’s true calling was to serve God and others.
This experience reshaped my understanding of what it means to live in God’s image and motivated me to align my daily actions with His will.
ASSIGNMENT
Take some time today to reflect on what being made in God’s image means to you.
Write down three ways you can honor God with your life this week.
Consider how you can use your unique talents and opportunities to reflect His character in your interactions with others.
Share these thoughts with a friend or family member to encourage accountability and support in your spiritual journey.
HYMN SUGGESTION “Take My Life and Let It Be”
This hymn is a powerful prayer of dedication and surrender.
As you sing or listen to it, let its words inspire you to commit every part of your life to God’s service.
Reflect on how each verse calls you to offer different aspects of your life to God, allowing Him to transform and use them for His glory.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we thank You for creating us in Your image and giving us the ability to reflect Your character. Help us to understand the significance of this truth and to live lives that honor You. Guide us to make choices that reflect Your love, justice, and holiness. Use our talents and opportunities to further Your kingdom on earth. As we seek to align our lives with Your amazing plan, fill us with Your Spirit, and give us the strength to follow Your will. May our lives be a testament to Your grace and truth, drawing others to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.Top of FormBottom of Form
Until Tomorrow
With A Shepherd’s Love,
Pastor Jackson
MONDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Sandra Graham
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Daniel Cooper’s Mother
George Calhoon
Steve Michaels
Gail Sparks
Ellen Boyd
Friend of Linda Hodge
Amy Garner’s Mom
Darlene Wiggins
David Burnette
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donnie Butler’s Dad
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ed Mays
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Freddie May’s Mom
George & Linda Alexander
James Burnette
Joanie/Jeanie Mom
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Lonzo Christin
Lori Blount’s Mother
Marynell Ford
Maureen Brown
Michael Stanley
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Sarah Parker
Scott Lanier
Tom Graham (Sandra’s Husband)
Tom Witcher