Bible Study Seattle

Having purpose is very important in life.  Here are some verses on purpose:

“But, indeed, for this reason I have allowed you to remain, in order to show you My power and in order to proclaim My name through all the earth.”  Exodus 9:16

“I know that You can do all things,
And that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.”  Job 42:2

“Many plans are in a man’s heart,
But the counsel of the Lord will stand.”  Proverbs 19:21

“A plan in the heart of a man is like deep water,
But a man of understanding draws it out.” Proverbs 20:5

“So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.”  Philippians 2:12-13

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”  Romans 8:28

Since the miracle of technology arrived 150 years or so ago, man’s lack of higher purpose has brought interesting changes.  We have enough technology that most women could stay home and the men could work 25 hour weeks.  The curse on Adam has been partially lifted:

“Cursed is the ground because of you;
In toil you will eat of it
All the days of your life.
“Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you;
And you will eat the plants of the field;
By the sweat of your face
You will eat bread,
Till you return to the ground,
Because from it you were taken;
For you are dust,
And to dust you shall return.”  Genesis 3:17-19

Instead of enjoying the freedom that technology could bring, millions of people commute to cubicles (cue Dilbert), where they toil doing endless, pointless paperwork.  Millions of laws have been passed in restraint of trade and production, to protect giant monopolies.  A very small group of people control an enormous percentage of the world’s wealth.  This will not stand forever.  But what would people do if they only had to work 10 hours per week?  Many would probably wallow, watching endless hours of TV.   In any case, YHWH’s purposes are being worked out whether we perceive them or not.  We should strive to be part of God’s plans to bring about the salvation of mankind.  It will take time (lot’s of time!), but it will be glorious.