Determination

The World English Dictionary defines determination as "the act or an instance of making a decision or a resolute movement towards some object or end."  The first step of determination is identifying the thing worthy of your focus and attention.  What are you determined to accomplish?  I am not asking what you stated as your New Year's resolution.  Those resolves are common and do not typically stand the test of time.  The question is what have you purposed in your heart and mind to complete?

The church has always been a part of my life.  My family has moved 6 times in the last ~30 years.  With those moves, my perspective on church, religion and faith has expanded.  Despite worshipping under different denominations, each one has always recommended reading the Bible.  Though recommended, I can honestly say I have not consistently followed that practice.  I marvel at Bible scholars who can recite the verse as soon as they hear the chapter and verse number.  Over the years, every so often, I would decide to "learn scriptures."  Inevitably, I became distracted or discouraged and didn't continue.  However, epiphanies come with age.

In the "year of 40," I published my first book, Faith to Conquer Fear:  Inspiration to Achieve Your Dreams.  This book is a compilation of quotes, anecdotes, and religious references that inspire you to pursue your God given dreams and purpose.  So many people travel aimlessly through this precious life without ever pursuing what God has called them to do.  I truly believe this book has the ability to change minds and lives.  As I turned 40, I realized in order to do what God has called me to do, which is inspire people to be their best, I had to renew my mind.

According to 2 Timothy 2:15, " Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."  To be all God has called you to be, you have to know what God says about you.  The only way to be certain is to read the Bible for yourself. It is not enough to listen to someone else share the Word.  In the word of God, you will find your purpose.

I am determined to increase my biblical aptitude and discover all I can be in God.  I have purposed this in my heart and my mind.  What have you purposed in your heart to accomplish?