Walking In My God-Given Purpose

It sounds simple: "Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established" (Proverbs 16:3). This scripture resonates deeply through the sermons I've heard, the passionate cries of revivals I've attended, and the fervent prayers I've whispered during new year resolutions and fasts aimed at realizing my dreams and fulfilling God's will. Yet, despite my earnest efforts, I sometimes feel short of the mark. Burdened with God-given dreams and aspirations, I often feel stuck, like a bird trapped in a cage, its wings clipped by the fear that has held me back for too long.

The Bible inspires me: "Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it" (Habakkuk 2:2). My closet stands as a testament to my intentions, filled with journal after journal brimming with visions. Have I acted on them? Sadly, not nearly enough. I've celebrated significant milestones—graduating high school, earning two master's degrees, publishing books, and finding work in my chosen field—but beneath that surface, success lies a wealth of unfulfilled potential, dreams that linger in the shadows, waiting for the light of action.

My journey has seen extreme highs and devastating lows, often leaving me feeling lost, wandering in search of direction. In my impatience, I tried to assist God, convinced that if He didn’t move quickly enough, I would step in as His aide. Yet, His reassuring words from Jeremiah remind me, "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). I am also reminded to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Life has presented a spectrum of challenges—hurt, pain, rejection, disappointment, betrayal, heartbreak, and loss. Often, I've allowed these experiences to cage me. Growing up as the youngest sibling in a household where my dark skin attracted taunting, I internalized those hurtful words, grappling with feelings of inadequacy. I learned that overcoming the scars left by others is vital in stepping into one’s purpose.

Embracing my God-given assignment requires a blend of confidence, faith, boldness, obedience, and vulnerability. The path God has laid out for us is rarely comfortable, as shown by the stories of Jacob, Joseph, Job, Jeremiah, Esther, David, and even Paul. God doesn’t seek resumes; He calls us into action based on His divine choice. “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit…” (John 15:16). He challenges me to stretch beyond my limits, honing my gifts and talents to glorify Him and unveil my purpose.

Perhaps my greatest fear is reaching heaven only to discover a room filled with unclaimed blessings, all waiting for me to embrace my purpose. Living a life of excuses and stagnation risks forfeiting my rightful inheritance. I long to experience the fullness of my blessings here on Earth, to enjoy what God has prepared for me, rather than merely watching from a distance. It’s time to break free from fear and step boldly into the destiny that awaits.

By Sandra Jean Charite