Assignments

Lately, a theme has surfaced in my life regarding the idea of Assignments. Assignments, as I think of them, are defined as the singular purpose which God gives an individual that helps to define that person's purpose while also providing a framework for making decisions throughout their life.

Knowing the assignment God has given you in life helps provide a framework from which you can answer some of the questions you may have about your future. Here's a silly example…if you know God has asked you to spread the joys of the color red around the world then you can make an informed decision when someone offers you a job selling the color black. Why? Because you know your assignment is the color red and understanding that assignment helps you know what jobs do / do not fit you. Similarly, I believe that knowing your assignment strengthens you to know your place as you navigate through your life.

Recently, when I started transitioning away from my current work and into the season I find myself now a respected friend asked me " Do you believe God gives people assignments?" "Yes", I replied. "Good, what do you think your assignment is?" Without pause an emotional response came from me when I said, "to minister to the Lord". The experience impacted me. Frankly I was surprised of what came out of my mouth. Years ago someone praying for me said they thought I had a gift of ministering to the Lord. I didn't really know what that meant back then but I am starting to learn more. Normally when I am faced with such a question I pause, think a bit and try to figure out the answer. Oddly enough I knew the answer without thinking this time.

Days following this conversation with my friend I began to notice other people who had a clear assignment from the Lord. One such person was the Apostle Paul. Ephesians 3:1-7 shows us that Paul confidently knew that his life's assignment was to share the truth of the gospel and let people know that the message of the gospel was available to everyone, not just those who've heard of God before but those who had never heard of him were also included. Paul's life and message were spent proclaiming this truth. Knowing his purpose helped him navigate all of the trials and pain that came in his life because he knew his purpose and he knew what he was to be about. It provided a framework from which he could live his life and fulfill his assignment.

Jesus also had a clear assignment. Hebrews 12:1-2 says that it was "for the joy set before him endured the cross, despising the shame." While there were many other factors that strengthened Jesus on his journey nonetheless his understanding of God's assignment for him to save the world through death, burial and resurrection was the framework or perspective He needed to stay true when the events of his life turned sour and the truth of his purpose unfolded in to history. Even during the time when he felt forsaken by God I believe he knew his assignment and knew he must surrender to god's will because his assignment had purpose.

In conclusion, let me ask you two simple questions: 1) Do YOU believe God gives people assignments? 2) What assignment has he given for your life? 3) Does that knowledge answer any questions about where you should go next?