Let him... take up his cross daily...
Luke 9:23 NKJV
Here are three questions that will help you to identify your cross:
1) What direction is God leading me? If you think your background doesn't matter, think again. It can be a roadmap to your future. Consider the experiences and the kind of lifestyle you've been exposed to. Growing up in Egypt prepared Moses to stand before Pharaoh. David's years leading sheep, groomed him to lead a nation. Paul's distinction as a Hebrew scholar and Roman citizen qualified him uniquely to minister to both religious and nonreligious people.
2) What burdens has God laid on my heart? Paul says: "My heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved" (Romans 10:1 NKJV). Paul was driven by a passion to see his people saved. What drives and inspires you? Building shelters for the homeless? Standing against abuse and neglect? Try visiting a nursing home and see if you don't leave feeling uplifted. Or spend time with a group of special-needs kids; they'll teach you more than you teach them! Fulfilment comes from the desires of your heart, not just the ideas in your head.
3) What areas utilise my talent? The Bible says God 'has given each one of us a special gift' (Ephesians 4:7 NLT) and although 'There are different kinds of working,… the same God works all of them in all men' (1 Corinthians 12:6-7 NIV). How can you tell the difference between a self-generated and a God-generated idea? Solomon said, "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but… the Lord's purpose… prevails" (Proverbs 19:21 NIV). Man-made ideas have a short shelf-life, divine direction persists; it has longevity.
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