"In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed. And Simon and his companions hunted for him. When they found him, they said to him, “Everyone is searching for you.” He answered, “Let us go on to the neighboring towns, so that I may proclaim the message there also; for that is what I came out to do.” Matthew 1:35-38
Jesus remained faithful to his purpose and calling, even when that meant disappointing the crowds who followed Him from city to city. Jesus exemplifies and demonstrates how important it is for us to have clarity in our calling and focus as we live out our purpose.
But how can we stay focused with all the distractions?
How do we find clarity in the midst of chaos and confusion?
How do we align our purpose and plans with God’s will when our hearts and minds are tainted by sin?
Unfortunately, sin & distractions will often get in the way of our ability to find clarity in our calling and purpose. In our text, Jesus points to something we can do to NURTURE our communication with God so that we can have a clearer sense of purpose for our lives.
The Bible says, Jesus got up “in the morning, while it was still very dark” and went out to a deserted place…and there He prayed”. Because Jesus was intentional on spending quality times alone in prayer, Jesus was able REJECT the temptation of "listening" to the crowds. Prayer & Fasting enables us to clarify our calling and purpose. When we get to a quiet place to pray and read the Word of God, we can find peace that surpasses all of our understanding in the midst of distractions.
If you’re having a difficult time in this season, be encouraged, stand firm, remain vigilant, and be encourage by these words in Isaiah 40:30-31: "Even youths will faint and be weary, and the young will fall exhausted; but those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, hey shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint."
Pray:
Lord, I need clarity in my calling and purpose. Put within me a new desire to spend time with you in prayer in the midst of the demands and distractions of life. Thank you for your Word that both challenges me and encourages me to keep going when I want to give up. Thank you for your grace, clarity, protection, peace, and provision.
In Jesus Name…Amen