This past week Laurie and I hosted a young man in our home who is by training and profession an architect who was fascinated by the variety of architecture in Berlin. Standing in the middle of Postdammer Platz, he slowly spun in a circle studying the experimental structures marveling at the different buildings and the creativity of their designers.
On Sunday, I stood at the front of the congregation, looked across the room, and marveled at the diversity of people and the creativity of our God who designed each and every one. In architecture, it is said that “form follows function”—the architect has in mind a purpose for a building and then designs the building to fit that use. In creation, it’s much the same. God has in mind a purpose for each and every individual so he designs and SHAPES that person uniquely to fit his purpose.
When we get to know our “form” we will know God’s intended “function” for us. In other words, when we understand who God has made us to be…our SHAPE…then we will know what God intends for us to do.
What’s your SHAPE?
“S” stands for SPIRITUAL GIFT. God has gifted each of us with a spiritual gift given to us at conversion that motivates us to serve him. (See the link on the right to take a free online assessment.)
“H” stands for HEART’S DESIRE. God has filled our hearts with godly passions, interests, and desires that give direction to our service.
“A” stands for ABILITIES. God has made us with innate talents, abilities, and skills which when dedicated to serving contribute to God’s kingdom.
“P” stands for PERSONALITY. God has blessed each of us with a given personality that affects how we best serve the Lord.
“E” stands for EXPERIENCES. God has permitted spiritual, educational, life-changing, and hurtful experiences in our lives to grow us and for us to use as a foundation for service.
What’s your SHAPE? Get to know the person that God has designed you to be and you’ll discover what God wants you to do.
May God use each and every one of us to make disciples in authentic community for the good of his world!
SHAPED to love and serve you as…
Your pastor,
Scott Corwin
Sundays Sermon Slides: Putting a Priority on God’s Work
This Week’s Study: Rebuilding the Temple (Volunteerism), Haggai
[Use this study for personal, family, or small group study.]