What’s Your Passion? (Part 8: Next Steps)

“Never underestimate the power of passion.” Eve Sawyer

This series focused on the power of passion. Christians know very little about the subject because it isn’t preached in most churches. That’s unfortunate because passion reveals why you’re here on earth.

What do you do if you still haven’t identified your passion?
Relax. Don’t panic. Since God made you for a purpose He’ll reveal it to you in His time. That doesn’t mean you just hang around waiting for a scroll to drop from heaven. Get to work! Start serving.

Take advantage of every opportunity. Like buying new clothes, try on different options to see which one fits. Explore without committing. Observe without expectations. Visit your Sunday school. Usher. Serve food at a homeless shelter. Greet people on Sundays. Attend prayer meetings. The point is: try out a bunch of stuff and see which one fits.

The key to identifying your passion is to notice your body’s reaction as you serve. Where are you energized? What makes your heart beat faster? Which brings a smile to your face or tears to your eyes? When do you say, “Someone should do something?” Or “I can’t wait to do that again?”

Over time the possibilities narrow. Then get feedback from a pastor, ministry director, or friend. Above all else, pray that God will show you the way.

What do you do if you know what your passion is?
Serve – faithfully with perseverance and prayer. Memorize and meditate on this verse: “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Learn as much as you can about your audience. If your audience is a group of people, seek to understand their needs. If it’s a social issue, learn about the problem or issue. If it’s a ministry position, shadow a staff member for a day.

Summary
Romans 14:12 says, “So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” In “The Purpose-Driven Life” Pastor Rick Warren writes that God will ask only two questions.

First, “How did you respond to my offer of salvation through Christ?” This question is meant for unbelievers. Believers know that God saved them – by grace through faith – when they accepted Christ as their Savior.

The other question is geared to believers. How did you invest your time, talents and treasure? Did you serve others or yourself? Were you faithful or did you falter? Your answer will determine your eternal reward.

If you are a Christ-follower I’m sure that, like me, you long to hear God say these words: “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21). Identify and pursue your passion. Then you’ll be able to answer God’s second question with confidence.

©2011 Designed to Serve®