Seeing From an Eternal Perspective My own agenda must not get in the way of God’s purposes and pursuits. My prayer is to be sensitive to what God desires for my life. “Before I formed you in the belly I knew you; and before you came forth out of the womb I sanctified you, and I ordained you a prophet unto the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5 The Bible lays two tracks upon which the church and I must devote our lives, The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) and The Blessing Mandate (Genesis 1:28). Being light and salt, making disciples, and sharing in God’s kingly rule is my God given responsibility. I have been given capacity and gifting that requires me to be responsible to God’s commission and mandate. I must practice my theology, “God is sovereign and must have the pre-eminence in my life.” The only work that will make a difference is gospel work conceived in prayer and filled with the Holy Spirit. Anything less is wasted effort. God is present and wants to sup with me. “And He (Jesus) is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things He might have the pre-eminence.” Colossians 1:18 “Ask of Me, and I shall give you the heathen for your inheritance and the uttermost parts of the earth for your possession.” Psalm 2:8 My heart must take comfort from this promise that God’s Kingdom shall be enlarged and triumph over all opposition. My walk and life are secure in this promise. “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might.” Deuteronomy 6:5 I love God with all my heart. I find His ways are pleasant and His paths are faithful. My duty in God’s service is a delight that is based on a relationship of love. Love of God and delight are as root and leaf. My focus must be and remain Jesus, “the author and finisher of my faith.” What a joy being apprehended by the Lord for eternal purposes. In His Grip, Pastor Jay T. Francis 6/14