When I think of making a difference, the bible verse from John 15:16 comes to mind…
"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you."
I can make a difference by setting an example; by teaching people what trusting and being faithful in God can do in our lives. It's about being intentional in serving, just as God tells us.
In order for me to bear fruit (love, joy peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control), I must stay connected to the vine…to God. I must be intentional in choosing Him.
I must be Intentional in all things.
I believe that everything I do carries with it an impact. The decisions I make about who I want to be, how I want to live and how I treat others affects more than just my immediate surroundings.
If I come in contact with someone, I will either leave them feeling better about themselves or worse, but I never leave them unaffected. It’s like a first impression. Whether we acknowledge them or not, we have made an impression on them.
The way for me to make sure I'm living intentionally is to first be sure I'm present in the moment. To intentionally give people my focus and try to leave an impact. My goal is to leave everyone with whom I am in contact with knowing they are special... that someone cares. For me, being intentional is paying attention to what the need of the other person may be and doing my part to fill it.
It's also my intention to be open to whatever God has in store for me. One of my biggest fears is that He has a purpose for me and if I'm not paying attention, I'll miss it. I pray for guidance and pray that I can be intentional in all things.
I believe in God's plan, I want to encourage and, hopefully, leave others feeling better than when I found them.
With love and joy,
Laura Pedersen