The Shift

Last night's Bible study and yesterday's church sermon really tugged at my heart. Well... more than tugged. They ripped at it. This won't be easy, but I'm having to create and foster a shift in my attitude. I am a person who plans, who looks ahead eagerly and who waits with fervent hope. And that's not necessarily bad, but it's missing the point. If I'm always hoping for the future, then what is happening to my joy in the present? It's nonexistent.
So, while the destination (is there one? or would I always be looking ahead?) is certainly something to strive for, the journey is worth stopping, taking a breath and being joyful. Joyful in the moment. Honest joy. It won't be easy, but I'll find a way to do it. After all, Paul rejoiced while bound by chains in a jail cell. David praised God while hiding for his life in a cave for a decade.
Here's the shift in my perspective: find the joy in my present state and protect it, nourish it and bask in it.

Purpose Driven Life

My Bible study group has started a new study. The Purpose Drive Life by Rick Warren. I know MANY churches went through this study a couple of years ago. I somehow missed out on that and never had the opportunity to go through the study. Looking back now, I realize that it was not the right time for me. Lately, I have been searching. Searching for purpose, searching for meaning in my everyday life. Most of the time I just feel very lost and this can get very discouraging.
So when this book was considered for our group, I was very excited. I got a little behind on the reading the first week (because of traumatic home events), but I will get back on track.
What I have read so far has been amazing. It speaks directly to me and my struggles.
One sobering idea in the book is "It is NOT about YOU." Society as a whole is very selfish and narcissitic. It is easy to get caught up in this trend and look for self fulfillment in YOURSELF. Everytime I try to find purpose within myself, I fail.
I almost feel stupid for JUST realizing this, but.....baby steps, you know?! I will get there, slowly but surely.
Another idea from the book that is humbling: "God created you for a purpose. He knows your entire life before you were even BORN." It is incomprehensible to fathom that God knew me before I was born. How can you not find joy and love in this simple fact? He knew me, He loves me.
I am really excited to continue the journey through The Purpose Driven Life.
Have you studied The Purpose Driven Life? What are your thoughts?