Wired for What???

by Christopher S. Esty at the biblepost.com

There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. –Proverbs 14:12

I once heard a very well-known pastor speak to a group of people who were, for the most part, unbelievers. Addressing the subject of our Life’s Purpose, he had said, “If you want to know what you ought to be doing with your life, you need to look at your shape. What am I wired to do?” He later added, “Did you know that God smiles when you be you?” And at the end of his message he said, “My advice to you is to look at what’s in your hand: your identity, your influence, your income, and say, ‘It’s not about me. It’s about making the world a better place.’” Thus, he completed his message.

On the surface, this sounds like good advice, but a keen eye will observe how deadly it is!

First of all, we shouldn’t be looking at our shape (talents) to discover what we ought to be doing with our lives. We should look to Christ’s example instead. After all, the Bible instructs us to “walk even as He walked” (1 John 2:6). Thus, it is our purpose to be conformed to His image (Romans 8:29; 12:2). To look to our talents for purpose is to lean on our own understanding. The Bible discourages us from doing that: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and depart from evil” (Proverbs 3:5-7). Our talents don’t define our purpose; God does.

Incidentally, Just because a person is using their talent that doesn’t mean they’re using it in a way that pleases God. A lot of people are highly talented, but they use their talents in order to secure fame and fortune. In other words, they’re self-centered. No doubt, these people are being who they are. They are corrupt and unregenerate! To say God smiles at them is to say something that’s contrary to the truth.

Read it all here …