I must confess that I am an idealist. I tend to get fixated on the way things ought to be and I do not remain satisfied with the way things are. Generally, this is a good characteristic to have, but if I am not careful, I can become so focused on the idea that I miss being present and ceasing the moments that help me move toward the ideal. I am learning to be present at the moment on purpose.
Chances are you struggle with the same challenge. If you don’t then more power to you! If do, I want to offer these suggestions that can help you be present on purpose as you continue to move forward in making that vision that God has put in your heart become a reality. Before I do, I want to establish what I mean when I say, “be present on purpose.”
Being Present on Purpose
Mindfulness has become a popular concept in the world of self-help and positive psychology. Mindfulness can be described this way: “Mindfulness means maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment, through a gentle, nurturing lens.”[1]
The concept of mindfulness has been attributed to Buddhist practice; however, biblical scriptures are replete with the concept of being present not with being self-absorbed but being consciously aware of self through the lens of Christ. [2]
As you progress on your pathway to your purpose, don’t get fixated on getting to a destination in mind; the fulfillment of purpose is not a destination; rather, it is an awareness of whose you are, who you are, and why you exist. The truth is throughout your lifetime, you will find yourself in many contexts that will allow you to express your purpose. Another word for this is “purpose vehicle.” You can learn more about this by when you sign up and take the Uncluttered Course.
So how can you be present on purpose?
- Cultivate a Kingdom-mindset
- Do all for God’s Glory
- Be Present to do good
Cultivate a Kingdom-mindset
The Kingdom of God is advancing. As a citizen of the Kingdom of God, this means that you should be advancing it and advancing in it. Jesus declares that we are the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13) and the light of the world (Matthew 5:14). This means that we have influence. You and I are called to bring transformation in the spheres that God has placed us in. Be convinced that the Gospel of the Kingdom will continue to be successful in history from age to age. Be present with power and authority.
Do All for God’s Glory
You reflect God’s glory when you do all for God’s glory. Everything we do, whether on the stage or in the background brings glory to God. Sometimes you will be in the backside of the desert preparing like Moses or David. Sometimes you will be called to take the stage and your influence will be felt. Regardless of the context, take on a fresh perspective that God will get the glory from your life and shine His glory through your life (Matthew 5:15-16). Be present to shine.
Be Present to do Good
I love Acts 10:38: “You know of Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him” (NASB). Jesus’s purpose on earth was to fulfill his role as Messiah and King. However, notice that the expression of his purpose was multifaceted. He was present to do good and bring healing and deliverance. Walking in your purpose will take on many expressions – not just an ultimate expression. So, get clear on what the ultimate expression is, but never devalue the impact you are making along the way.
What have you devalued on your path to purpose that has caused you not to be fully present where you are currently?
[1] Mindfulness Definition | What Is Mindfulness. (n.d.). Greater Good. Retrieved August 10, 2022, from https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/topic/mindfulness/definition
[2] Focus on the Family. (2021, June 23). Mindfulness: A Christian Approach. Retrieved August 10, 2022, from https://www.focusonthefamily.com/family-qa/mindfulness-a-christian-approach/