Posted August 30, 2009 – The Beginning:

I’ve been writing for years. Mostly in a physical journal as part of my devotional time. Then a couple of years ago, my desire for writing got dry and I quit altogether. Then recently, the desire gripped me again. This time I have chosen to write my thoughts and lessons learned, into a blog. I may not write every day; but when I do, I hope you’ll enjoy it!

Today’s reading is 1 Peter 1.

This passage is a great message on God’s sovereignty in salvation. In the past, there have been those who reject a more reformed view on God’s sovereignty, giving the typical “God didn’t make robots” comment. Personally, I find it thrilling to know that God is guiding my life (and eternal life) in such a specific way. I am not sure why God chose me and I don’t fully understand how God chose me, but I’m sure glad He did.

It is interesting that a passage on sovereignty would be this morning’s reading. Last night, my wife and I watched “Facing the Giants“. We were both moved by the message of God’s good (and sovereign) work in our lives, when we commit to Him. It made us think of our current situation.

You see, a year ago my family and I moved from Airdrie, Alberta to take a Youth Ministry position in Soldotna, Alaska. Currently, as a Canadian working at a church under an R1 (Religious Worker) permit for a period of three years. Up until this morning, I was really struggling with how long I wanted to spend in the United States. Though my time was not even close to being up, I wasn’t sure that I would want to extend this role past the three years I have been given.

I’m happy to say my perspective has shifted!

Throughout this week, I have been experiencing some incredible blessing, and growth in my ministry. Last night, God used Facing the Giants to continue shifting my heart. Then this morning’s Scriptural content from 1 Peter 1 has completely changed my perspective. I now feel an overwhelming sense of God’s planning and purpose in my life.

“Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:13)

I understand that I’m here for a great purpose. I need to prepare my mind for action in this moment and fix my hope completely on God to solidify my future. God’s sovereignty surpasses all my worldly ideas and plans. Who am I to plan out when and where God wants to use me?