Study Guide and Daily Devotion
Monday, September 5
The human search for meaning is the primary force in human life. Victor Frankl
in his book Man’s Search for Meaning, details his experience as a survivor
of a Nazi death camp. His view as a psychotherapist is unique and profound.
His experience in the camps showed that those who had a “why”
to live could bear even the most terrible “how” of their existence.
Those who had a sudden loss of hope and courage did not survive. Only those
who had some faith in the future could face the brutality and despair of the
camp. Having a direction and purpose gives meaning to one’s life. Having
a vision of the future gives hope in the present. Without faith in the future
there can be no meaning in life. Read Philippians 3:12-14. What is the goal
that Paul sees in his life? Describe your own “faith in the future.”
Tuesday, September 6
Frankl said, “the meaning of our existence is not invented by ourselves,
but rather detected.” Our task is not to create a purpose, but to discern
God’s purpose for us. This purpose can only be detected if we make God
the reference point for our lives. Christians believe that God created everything
for a purpose and that you are a unique and unrepeatable part of God’s
creation. What matters is not the meaning of life in general, but the specific
meaning of your life at a given moment. Everyone has his/her own vocation
and mission in life. In every circumstance and situation a person can find
meaning in serving God in that particular time and place. God asks the question
of us, “What did you do with your life?” Your answer reflects
the meaning of your life. How would you describe your mission in life at this
time?
Wednesday, September 7
During this past week, we have all witnessed the suffering of so many people
as a result of the destruction of hurricane Katrina. Thinking Christians will
resist the idea that this was “an act of God.” Natural catastrophes
are not deliberate acts of God; rather they are events that follow natural
laws that are part of God’s creation. Hurricanes, earthquakes and volcanoes
are all part of a living planet that continues to change. They may also be
consequences of human impact, as many scientists suggest that the strength
of hurricanes is increasing due to global warming. Events like this do however
cause a great deal of human suffering. Whenever one faces a fate that they
can not change such as incurable disease, or the effects of a storm, what
matters above all is the attitude they take toward suffering. We cannot change
fate, but we can choose the attitude we have toward this unalterable fate.
Meaning is found in suffering as Paul explores in 2 Corinthians 4:7-18. God
works wonders through our suffering and gives us courage that can be a positive
example to others. One can see the different ways people choose to respond
to their suffering in the wake of Katrina, some rescue others, some loot and
steal. When have you found meaning in suffering?
Thursday, September 8
At the center of our existence is a “vacuum” or empty place that
we try to fill in various ways. Read Ecclesiastes 1 and 2. Consider the many
ways people are driven and the way they try to find meaning? What happens
when these meanings are taken away? What are the things that drive you? Ultimately,
meaning only comes from God. That is why God is so ruthless in desiring that
we have no idols. Pray that you will put your trust in God alone to supply
you the meaning and purpose of your life.
Friday, September 9
Life is a journey that often does not go the way we want it. Meaning comes
when we realize that nothing is insignificant in our lives. Every moment is
another opportunity to grow and to serve. How is your life different if you
know you have a God given purpose and you press on toward it? Read Philippians
3:12-14.
First
United Methodist Church 