What Gets You out of Bed?

Do you have a burden for single women? How about troubled teens? Are you energized to open your home to others and make them feel welcome? Do you like comforting folks by bringing them meals or sending them cards?

God wired each of us for a purpose. I'm wired to encourage hurting Christian women find hope. Do you know how you're wired? Do you know your heart's passion?

In other words, what gets you out of bed other than the need for a caffeine fix? Do you know? What about your Christian friends, who may be struggling emotionally, financially or physically? Do they know their God-given purpose? Their unique fit?

If not, then you need to find out and so do they.

Often we Christian women balk at the notion God has a special purpose for us. We think we're just moms, or just wives, or just this or just that. Rather than embracing the blessing that God lavishes us with His love, we mutter, "Pish posh." Have you been there? I have.

Decades ago as life's dark side of depression strangled me -- yes, I was a Christian at the time -- I didn't think I had anything to give or even had worth. As I grabbed onto God's hand and as He pulled me from the pit, He taught me many truths, one being "you matter."

He gave me purpose and a purpose. In fact, every Christian does. "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do" (Eph. 2:10, NIV). Yes, God made you beautifully, for He "doesn't make junk," as an old bumper sticker aptly reads. And He created you to do good works, the ones He selected just for you.

You.

Knowing how God uniquely made you helps you invest your time and giftedness effectively and to avoid burnout. When to serve God and others in your ministry fit, you feel fulfilled because you are joining God in his work in the way he made you.

Here are snapshots of Christian women who serve according to their heart's passion. See if any resonate with you.

Kim teaches Sunday school to preschoolers, showing them the love of God through simple Bible stories, songs, and Jesus "tea parties."

Deb has a decorative flair. She beautifies her church's worship center at Christmas and Easter, making it inviting to regular attenders and visitors.

Tanya cleans the homes of elderly folks in need a helping hand and conversation. She drives them to doctors visits too.

There are synonyms for "heart's passion." You may prefer the terms one's burden or one's calling. It is the thing that excites you and moves you to action. You know, it's what gets you out of bed in the morning.

To determine your heart's passion, reflect on these questions:

If I could change one thing in the world, what would it be?

What do other Christians say I'm particularly good at?

Which of the following classifications of people tug at my heart? Homeless people; women who've had abortions; impoverished families; couples in healthy marriages; children with learning disabilities; substance abusers; families of prisoners; the elderly; the ill; women (or teens) in emotional pain; gifted children, other: ___________.

Look over your answers. Do you see a theme? If so, write down: I believe my heart's passion may be _____________.

Stuck?

Then think over tough times in your life. Many women discover that God uses their past to help others. For instance, a woman whose parents had a rocky marriage or who divorced may be called to encourage children from broken families. Another woman whose father made the military his career may ache to comfort lonely wives of servicemen.

Probably the best way to discern your heart's passion (and to encourage your Christian friend to do the same) is trying a variety of ministry experiences, both in and out of the church, and discover the ministries in which you:

Are the most fulfilled.

Seem to be the most effective.

Receive affirmation from other Christians.

Most important, ask God to which ministry He is calling you. If after prayer, you're still not sure where God has called you, try a ministry that interests you and begin.

"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him" (James 1:5).

Another helpful tool is a spiritual gifts survey. Knowing your spiritual gifts guides you in discovering your ministry fit. While many are available for purchase or on the web, I like the survey by LifeWay Christian Resources. You can take the survey online, or send me a contact message and I'll get you a copy.

When you discover your God-given calling as well as your spiritual gifts, you'll make a difference. So will the hurting women you encourage. "I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul" (Ps. 31:7).