Developing Your Personal Vision (Part 1)

"From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands." Acts 17:26

Everyone was created at a certain time, in a certain place, for a certain purpose. We all should seek to identify our life calling or purpose. Michael Hyatt has proposed that we discover our vocation or calling where the components of passion, proficiency, and profitability intersect.

First, what are you passionate about that breaks the heart of God? What holds your interest? What would you do if money was not an issue? Warning: Just because you love doing something does not mean that it is your calling.

Second, what are you proficient at? When do you feel God’s pleasure? What work are you proud of? What do you get rewarded for or hear others say you’re good at? How would you describe your gifts, skills, and abilities? Warning: Just because you are good at something does not mean that it is your calling.

Last, how could you be profitable or fruitful while influencing the world? What opportunities do you have to change the world? Is there a way to support yourself by what you do? Warning: Just because you make money doing something, doesn’t mean that it’s your purpose.

Once you have discovered your calling—who you are and why you are here—you can write out your vision. Your vision can be broken down into purpose, values or guiding principles, future dreams or picture of the future, and strategies.

[Next week we will discuss Jesus' vision in light of these four parts.]