Posted by Tabitha on August 4, 2003, at 12:45:20
Hi all. I'm curious about the notion of finding God's will for us as individuals. I never understood it. They talk a lot about it in 12 steps and I just never got it. I thought, OK, so you sit down and pray, and wait for some answer, and then how are you sure the answer you get is God's will and not just your own desire in disguise? What's the difference anyway? And I have to admit I was just plain skeptical that any old Joe could ask and receive divine guidance on matters large and small.
A friend told me that god's will for him means doing what he feels he's meant to do, like finding a calling (for him the calling is painting). That when he does this, he feels that all is right with the universe. So he says he knows it's god's will for him to paint. That makes sense to me, since I'm happiest taking cues from my intuition.
I'm 40 and going thru some midlife issues-- the burning question being-- what do I want to do with the rest of my life? How should I spend my time? Why am I here?
I've quit my job and one of the reasons is that I seem to get more clarity about myself when I don't have the daily stressors of the job. I'm hoping to get some sense of direction before the money runs out and I have to re-enter the work force.
I love this idea that I might in fact have a purpose-- at least a path that's more right than other paths. A profession, or a calling. Something unique to contribute. Unique gifts that will not only make the world (or someone else's life) a better place, but that will be fulfilling to me also.
It feels like a big leap of ... not sure of the word... faith? arrogance almost? to think that there might be a calling for me. And that the life force/ god/ mystery / whatever might actually help me find it.
I'm looking for signs. I'm praying (tentatively) for clues.
Thoughts anyone? Do you have a sense of purpose? Do you feel the creator helped you find it?
poster:Tabitha
thread:248047
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/faith/20030530/msgs/248047.html