SWHW Bible Reading Plan: September 2021Sample

Top Takeaway from Sarah Martin:

This statement came to my mind this time around in reading the book of Esther:

She found her purpose right where her feet were planted.

Yes, Esther found herself ready to serve her people and equipped with position and favor for “such a time as this.” But take note, this beautiful and humble queen didn’t scratch and scrape for any of it. Her feet were divinely planted in the king’s court. And you want to know what? 

Your feet are divinely planted, too.

So often I see very well-meaning women of all ages flat out obsessed with finding their purpose. The beautiful pursuit of surrendering your life to serve the Lord often turns into a stressful swirl.

Social media makes it easy to think that grand actions, events, ministry, large numbers, high payouts, likes, viral videos, and more are the equivalent of God-given purpose…God’s approval. 

These things in and of themselves aren’t bad at all. But what’s not good is when we see them from afar and seek to emulate them in hopes of fulfilling our need to make our own life worthy of the world; to hear others say, “well done.” So many Christians fall into this trap when, if they read their Bibles and let the Spirit lead and guide, they would know to the depths of their core that the only “well done” to hear is that of Jesus Himself. 

And, Jesus made the conversation of purpose quite easy: To love God with your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And to love others as yourself. This greatest commandment doesn’t have to have an elaborate vision board or business plan to see it played out. A willing, surrendered heart will do just fine.

We are called to seek the fullness of God with the fullness of who He created us to be.

We are called to deny ourselves, our pride, agenda, goals, and aspirations, and to take up our cross and follow Him alone. This means putting to death anything that promotes self instead of the fame and renown of Jesus. This means to put to death sin and guilt that separates us from the true satisfaction found in His presence alone.

We are called to choose Jesus as the only Way, Truth, and Life. That narrow gate and the narrow road is different from the world that calls us to live our best life, hustle, be a boss, follow our dreams.

Might I offer a few things to consider when you find yourself without purpose, direction, or clarity? 

• Stop and worship. A kingdom perspective will always do you good as you make less of yourself and make much of Jesus. 


• Ask God who it is that you can love and serve right in front of you, right here and now. 


• Pray for the welfare of your city...that place where your feet are planted. Pray for revival and awakening. Pray for many to surrender their lives to Jesus. Pray for healing and miracles. Pray for the Church to be on fire with His Spirit. Then…pray some more. 


• Repent of any pride that this life is all about you, your dreams, your vision, your goals. 


• Steward well the season you are in. What is in front of you? Stop looking for that “next thing” and sit in worship and surrender to love God and love others right where you are.

Your feet are intentionally planted. Will you intentionally live out your purpose right there?

Lord, thank You that we get to partner with You in Kingdom ministry in our work, homes, neighborhoods, churches, playgrounds, and ball fields all around us. Help us to focus on who we can serve here and be a shining example of Your mercy and love. Amen!