What Drives Your Life?

Here is what Day 3 part 1 of the Purpose Driven Life has to say about some of the most common driving forces in our life.

1. Guilt: Many people allow their past regrets and shame to control their future. They spend their time punishing themselves and therefore sabotaging their chances of success. The good news is God’s purpose is not limited by our past. He specializes in giving people a second chance. Psalm 32:1 “Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.”

2. Resentment and Anger: Instead of releasing their pain through forgiveness some people hold on to the hurt that others have caused them. Your offender, who has most likely forgotten their offense, can not continue to hurt you unless you hold on to the bitterness. Job 5:2 “Resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple.”

3. Fear: Fear driven people often miss great opportunities due to their need to play it safe. However, living in fear will keep you from fulfilling God’s purpose for your life. 1 John 4:18 “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”

4. Materialism: This is the category I fall into. I often let myself get trapped by the idea that the more money and things I acquire the more happy, more important, and more secure I will be. The truth is that money and possessions can be lost in an instant. Real security can only be found in what can not be taken from you, your relationship with God. Matthew 6: 19-21 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

5. Need For Approval: Many people allow the opinions of other people control their lives. They are in a constant search for the approval of those around them. If you spend your time trying to please everyone not only are you guaranteed to fail but you will also miss what God’s purpose is for your life. Matthew 6:24a “No one can serve two masters.”