(Because of a hectic schedule at work this week, I am sharing a post from several years ago.)

When I was a little girl, I came very close to drowning one summer in Lake Plain Dealing. That event had a huge impact in my life. I remember waking up in the middle of the night and crying out to God, “Lord, you didn’t take me home. You left me on this earth, so you must have a purpose for me.” Even as a little girl, I felt a sense of purpose for being here, but I just didn’t know what it was.

Every believer has a God-given purpose. And once you determine what that is, you will find joy and a sense of fulfillment as you carry out your purpose.

I encourage you to develop a personal mission statement if you have not already done so. Your mission is God’s unique purpose for your life as a believer. Here are some tips to help you develop your personal mission statement.

1. Understand your divine design.

Recognize how God uniquely created you and shaped you for His purpose. Understand your SHAPE –your spiritual gifts, your heart, your natural abilities, your personality, and your life experiences. (SHAPE is an original concept from Rick Warren and Saddleback Church, Lake Forest, California.) The way that God designed you and shaped you should give your clear direction as to what your mission is. God’s purpose for you will always be in line with the way He created you and SHAPED you.

2. Second, consider the desire of your heart.

What do you love to do? What gets you excited? What are you passionate about? I love to teach, write, and disciple others. When I’m doing those things, that’s when I feel most fulfilled. God is not going to appoint you to do something you don’t have a desire to do. Your desires will be in line with His purpose for you if you are seeking His will.

3. Third, write out your personal mission statement. Use these three questions to guide you:

• Who is your ministry focus group?
• What needs are you seeking to meet?
• How will you accomplish your mission?

4. Evaluate it periodically.

You know when you’re fulfilling your purpose because it fits you – there is a sense of deep satisfaction.

My personal mission statement is to encourage women to passionately pursue Jesus Christ through teaching, discipleship, and writing.

What is God’s unique purpose for you? I’d love to hear your personal mission statement.