LGC - A Life Well-Lived Part 1

A Life Well-Lived (Part 1)

Rhordan Wicks

INTRODUCTION

We often find ourselves questioning, “What do I do with my life?” or “What is the purpose of what I am doing now?” Yet, have we paused to ask a deeper question: “What is my life’s purpose?” Instead of merely asking God about our purposes—keeping the focus on ourselves—a more profound line of inquiry might be, “What is God doing? What is His purpose, and how can I align myself with His will?”

To explore this, we can turn to the life of King David, beautifully encapsulated in Psalm 78:70-72. This verse highlights how David was chosen by God to lead Israel, a calling that transformed his life from a humble shepherd to a king. Just as David’s plans shifted to align with God’s purpose, we too may find that our lives take unexpected turns. A well-lived life is not measured by achievements, but by how closely we align ourselves with God’s purpose, leading to a truly fruitful existence.

DISCUSSION

At this point, what do you think God is doing in your world, and your life?
Read Psalm 78:1-8. Notice that for the people of Israel, the first step to living a well-lived life is to deepen an understanding of who God is, drawn from a remembrance of His deeds and a knowledge of His law.

a. Read Jeremiah 9:23-24 (and Psalm 139). Notice that this understanding of God is not to be held at arm’s length away from us. But we are to know God as our own. Do you know God now? And how might you know God better?
Read Psalm 78:70-72. God has his heart on His people, desiring for them to usher His kingdom on earth.

a. God chose a shepherd, David, to be a shepherd of men. He chose fishermen, Simon Peter and Andrew, to be fishers of men (cf. Matthew 4:18-20). What skills and abilities do you possess that God might be using to serve His purposes?

b. When called, the fishermen left “at once,” putting aside their families, careers, and ambitions. What are you doing to prioritise God’s purposes over your desires? What challenges might you be facing in putting God first?
Read 1 Samuel 16:13-23 and 17:14-15.

a. What did David do after being anointed as king? What might he have been thinking as he entered Saul’s service?

b. What does faithfulness look like for you, even as you wait on God for His plans to unfold?
As a group, pray and lean into greater awareness of what God is doing in your worlds, and your lives. How might you be aligned to His purposes, to journeying alongside others, helping them know Christ, becoming conduits of God’s Kingdom?

WHAT WILL YOU DO

Living a fulfilling life requires us to seek and understand God’s purpose while aligning our lives with His will. By deepening our relationship with God, we open ourselves to His guidance and strength, enabling us to use our skills to serve His kingdom. Embracing transformation into Christ’s likeness allows us to reflect His character and lead others to Him. Remaining faithful in our current responsibilities is crucial as we await the unfolding of God’s plans, reminding us that every moment can serve His purpose.

By responding to His call and recognising His sovereignty, we can experience a life rich in fulfilment and meaning, anchored in our commitment to God’s will. Just as God chose David as His servant, you too can say yes to His call. Allow the Holy Spirit to fill and empower you for His divine purpose. This choice can transform your life, leading you to a fulfilment that only comes from walking in alignment with God’s will.

MEMORY VERSE

He chose David his servant and took him from the sheep pens; from tending the sheep he brought him to be the shepherd of his people Jacob, of Israel his inheritance. And David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them. – Psalms 78:72 (NIV)

An E1R1 REFLECTION

(From Matthew 19:16-30)

What is the cost of discipleship? When the young man approaches Jesus seeking eternal life, he inquires about what good deed he must perform. Jesus initially points him to the commandments, but when the young man claims to have kept them all, Jesus challenges him to sell his possessions and give to the poor, emphasising that true discipleship requires radical commitment and a willingness to let go of earthly attachments. Following Jesus is not just about fulfilling a set of rules or obtaining a reward; it involves a deep personal sacrifice and a reorientation of priorities.

As we reach out to those who do not yet know Christ and His gospel, let us be reminded that we might have to let go of some of our possessions or ambitions in the process. Following Christ involves more than just a one-off decision; it requires a transformative commitment that may challenge one’s current lifestyle.

Let us pray.