A few years ago, I was asking God what my direction in life should be. You’ve probably done that too. After all, we like to think we came to earth with a purpose and that when we check out, we’ll have something to say for the time we’ve spent here. At least, I like to think so.  In regard to that prayer, I was drawn to a Bible reading in Deuteronomy 11.  In part, the NCV version says this: “Remember my words with your whole being. Write them down and tie them to your hands as a sign; tie them on your foreheads to remind you. Teach them well to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on your doors and gates so that both you and your children will live a long time in the land the Lord promised your ancestors, as long as the skies are above the earth.”

This scripture has become my life purpose, my reason for writing and speaking and shining God’s light. If I take that same scripture and put it in my own words, this is what it would say to me. Here’s how I personalized this message and the answer to my prayer.

“Karen, never forget the things we’ve talked about. Store them in your heart and in your soul so that they become part of your being, part of everything you are. When you write, share your heart and help people know that I am still there for them. Tell them I will never leave them alone, never abandon them, or stop loving them. When you write at your keyboard, I will bless your hands and inspire your thoughts. I will help you remember the most important things. If it helps, you can wear a cross or a bracelet or a headband that gives you a greater sense of my presence.

Think of my children every place you go. When you’re home, invite your neighbors and friends and any I send your way to come through your door so you can plant the seeds of my presence in their hearts. When you’re out and about, traveling or shopping, or simply doing your errands, look at every person you meet as a child I want to embrace. Open the door to awaken their spirits for I will be there. I will help you recall the things I’ve taught you, the things I’ve done for you, so you can keep telling those stories. Many have not yet understood how much I want to be part of their lives. Keep writing and speaking and sharing and opening doors on earth that will in turn open the gates of heaven for those who are ready to hear My voice. This is your mission, and if you will do this, you and your children, and children ages from now will thrive. This is my promise to you for as long as the earth exists.”

This verse impacted me. I am working to fulfill this purpose as best I can, knowing that God forgives the things that are worst about any of us, so that He can use the things that are best about all of us. All He really wants then is your best and mine. I’ve still got stories to tell and so do you. What a blessing that is!