Hi, anyone know this book. It is an awesome book. If you read it, plz share your thoughts on the chapters that you feel that touched you. If many people have this book, we can start discussing it here. Or anyone have any book that you would rather study as a group?

A friend of mine sent the book to me. I read it, but not in the 40 days it suggested. I couldn't put the book down as it was too interesting and I had to keep going with it. I was so impressed that I had to get one for my friend in Virginia, but didn't have the money, so my other friend mailed another one to me, that I sent to her because I didn't want to part with my favorite book in all the world. My sister just recently had a birthday, and I wanted her to have a copy so bad, as she needed to learn a little bit more about why she is here on this Earth, and I didn't have the money to buy it for her, LOL, so I gave her my book. I now have no book to refer to with your question, and I can't remember anything anymore. LOL I am just drawing a blank now. All I know is that it is the greatest book ever written, and if anybody has opportunity to buy it, they make it in a soft back with large print too, and thaat makes it nice to lay on the couch in comfort, LOL, to read it. It will change a persons life. Sorry about my memory, but some day some of you will benefit from my bad memory if you ever say something to me that you regret saying, count on me to forget what you said. hehehehe Donna

But I am open to anything you guys want to discuss. You know me by now, if I have the time I will be around to ad my thoughts now and then.

Excempt from "Purpose Driven Life" Chapter Questions. Pont to Ponder: It is not about me [Vivian: What this sentence mean to you or trigger your thoughts on] Verse to Remember: "Everything got started in Him and finds its purpose in Him." Colossians 1:16 [Vivian: Do you agree with the statement? Why or why not?] Question to Consider: In spite of all the advertising around me, how can I remind myself tha tlfie is really about living for God, not myself? [Anyone is welcome to give your answer to all three questions above.]

I think you mentioned that it is not about me. This brings to mind that it is not about us, because we are put here for the purpose of pleasing the Lord, not pleasing ourselves. We are suppose to bring pleasure to the Lord. Our whole focus should be on woshipping him, and praising him for all the wonderful things he has done for us, and given us. It is NOT about us, it is about GOD. Donna

I just purchased this book last week and am on day 4. This is a wonderful book. I love just reading a chapter a day thinking about that days topic. But I agree its hard no to keep reading.

I have not read the book, but on question #3 I always ask my self on any given situation,WHAT WILL JESUS DO? and it makes me do things a lot better for him a me.

This is my second time doing this chapter questions. I have decided not to copy and paste my first reading response, cuz books supposingly have new meaning to us as each time we view them. When I think of the sentence it isn't about me. It make me think of how often I put me in driver sit and not Lord. I feel helpless, cuz I know I'm wrong. The verse make me think of what my purpose He planned for me. Now I'm trying to get a job, but will this be the rest of my life? I'm not satisfy with a diploma, but how can I finance them. How can I handle both work and study? And how to I handle my long distance relationship if I were to travel to another city? But I know one of the purpose in my life is to endure all the test given by God. In the third question, I agree with Sally, whenever I do something, I shall remember to ask myself, "Is this what Jesus would do?"

To me it means that Christ is all! He is the center and all creation and the focus and attention of it. He knew me before I was born so my purpose in life begins with Him. His desire is for me to life a full life so He also desires to live in me to carry out His will to His glory and praise. His will is also for me to share eternity with Him so He has paved the way for that also. Jesus is creator...He is life....and He is the future.

My mom was going through the book when my newest sweet-pea, Abigail, was born. Abby was a few minutes old, laying in the little heat-box thingy, and my mom walked over and asked her, "What is *your* purpose, Abigail?" :o)Kelly PS- Abby didn't answer right away, but she did stick her tongue out shortly thereafter.

that's so cute. It is so cool that your mother thought of God when your baby is born. I think you probaby have the same question about your baby, too Cool, many blessing to you.

hi dennis and all, well, usually I will feel helpless that I am still of the world, but today I pray for this matter! I decide to pray to God instead of whining, and made excuse.

You're gonna be ok. Just remember that is why He came.....because we were ALL helpless and still are. But I know how you feel. Take my word for it,Vivian,that will all change in time. The more time you spend with Him and learn of Him the more those feeling will fade away. He is the greatest friend that you will ever have.

Some may find this group friendly and helpful, but I say starting this group benefit me a lot. Not only I'm helping others, I have learnt many things from you all too, to that I give thanks. Thank you.

Ok, that's it I am buying the book today. This sounds way too interesting to pass up. Thanks for the posts it has helped show me the book is definitely worth reading. It really sounds like it will help you grow in Christ God bless and watch over you Carla

Hello eveyrone, Not been around for about a week or more, had some things to deal with, doing better. I haven't read the book Purpose Drive Life, but would love to read it, who is the author? I am glad to be reminded of many things today as I read everyones messages. I am reminded to think of less of me and more of Christ, also to consider What would Jesus do? In many things in our daily life that question would help us to dp many things differently. Also, the reason we are here is to serve our Lord, show others what our hope is by witnessing and that can be accomplished in many ways. Helping others is important. Our life can be used in so many many ways for Jesus. I need to get that book, now I am anxious to read it. I do hope all of you are having a happy day today and everyday. Rose

Rick Warren is the Author I'm so glad you feel touched by the message. Yes each of us can be light of God- Living by examples. The best worship to Lord is our life. Amen!

I am a Christian and believe Jesus has blessed me in many ways. One thing about this book I do think about often. It says God knows when you will be born and when you will leave this earth. My son was in a tragic accident and went to be with God when he was 17 not even a year ago. I know God gives us free will and just wondering how much free will has to do with when you join God. He jumped in the water to save to other teenagers. Just wondering if this was Gods plan all along??? Or if free will had anything to do with it. Blessings Suzanne

I think God leaves nothing to chance. His plan includes the calculation of mistakes men made too. I mean, if God is unwilling, there will be no premature baby dies or orphan. But each life glorify Lord according to God's plan. To foregone life to save another, this is very aimable. And I'm sure God is smiling down to you. After all, life and death, is temporary. (I'm learning that). But we all will meet in heaven and enjoy heavenly treasure. Your son will want you to be happy, too. Remember him in Christ Love, Vivian

Point to Ponder: I am not an accident. Verse to Remember: "I am your Creator. You were in my care even before you were born." Isaiah 44:2 Q t Consider: Knowing that God uniquely created me, what areas of my personality, background, and physical appearane am I struggling to accept?

God chooses those of us he knows will get the job done. God knew that your son would go to the rescue of those people in the water. He might have been sent here by God for this job, and it was accomplished. Of course your son could have chosen not to save a life, but God knows everything, and he knew that not choosing to save a life wasn't going to be an option with your son. Mine had just turned 19 when he pushed two girls off the tracks, and died. The Amtrak train was going 120 miles per hour in a residentual area. I am sorry for your loss as I know how it feels. Donna

Point to Ponder: I am not an accident. >It makes me think that everything in my life, both up and down has its own meaning. But what make me think more of it, is that God even calculate the mistakes human made in his plan, for as Purpose Driven Life and many other book says, "God plays no dice." I just wonder how those who are less fortunate than I am, could have seen God purpose in their life and how God loves them. God creates everything as they are, no mistake, and everything is to glorify Lord. Those who suffer for his sake will be rewarded in heaven. I'm still grasping these lines. Is it possible to have no whining on how God has planned our life? Q t Consider: Knowing that God uniquely created me, what areas of my personality, background, and physical appearane am I struggling to accept? >I struggling in believe I will have power when I rely on Him. Maybe it is more of like I have doubt of my own ability.

My peronality. Sometimes I can come acrioss as being hard and calloused when I don't mean to appear that way. My background. Being part Native American bothered me at one time in the sense that some people could not understand my love of my heritage and being a Christian. I found out that it was their ignorance and not me that was in question. Physical appearance. I never did like my physical appearance until I learned to see myself as Christ Jesus sees me and learned that that was the important thing and not how I felt about it.

Thanks Dennis for sharing. perhaps I will answer this question again -->Q t Consider: Knowing that God uniquely created me, what areas of my personality, background, and physical appearane am I struggling to accept? My personality, I'm learning that I won't let my guilt as my excuse. My background, once I learnt that my parents are my greatest gifts God has given me, everything that has happened to me in the past seems so small in comparing that my parents are alive now! My physical appearance, I always smile to mirror, as to strength my confidence, but it only work in some case. I'm still learning to rely on God for everything. And I don't know what would happen to me if God suddenly take away everything I have. I always hope that day won't come, but I know it will... well soon enough... I hope I will learn to rely on Him before dawn comes and find that I'm in deep trouble.

I found this to be a good question. I don't know about you,but for me it is quite an experience being honest about myself. Thanks for putting this up here. It forced me to think and be honest.

Hi, got started on the book the 13th and it is really something else. personality wise I can be so crabby sometimes, I do not mean to be it makes me feel awful afterwards,it is like I try to hurt before I get hurt. One reason I am reading this book and seeking so much of God's word. I am tired of hurting others and feeling lonely. Background : alot of hurt there, alcholics, drug abuse and so many others, not me but family members and ex husband. as for appearance, no self confidence here at all, I am like you Dennis as far as being happy with my looks, never was, I am learning slowly that it should not matter, but somtimes the inner child comes out and cries. With the Lord's help though I am coming out of it. That is why I am so glad He led me here. Hugs and God Bless Carla

Just like myself you will learn how to put that all behind you like an old worn out coat and move on in life. Plus you hae friends here that can relate in one way or another.

I have problem with my esteem too. We are all learning. I'm glad you feel happy in here. Very much wish you stay along with us forever. Love, Vivian

Thank you both, it has been a daily blessing ever since I happened upon this group. I truly believe God sent me to this site where such wonderful people are. Some days it has helped more than you know to just come back and reread some of the things you have written. God bless and watch over you Carla

Point to Ponder: Living on purpose is the path to peace Verse to Remember: "You, LORD, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you." Isaiah 26:3 Question to Consider: What would my family and friends say is the driving force of my life? What do I want it to be?

In the book "Purpose Driven Life" it stated some common people life are driven from, such as guilt, resentment, and anger, fear, materialism and approval. But actually we shall live by God's purpose, so that our life is meaningful, simplified, focused, and prepared us for eternity. ------------------------------------------------------- re: point to ponder: I think to be growing with Holy Spirit guiding me, and to endure all test God given me would be one of the purpose of my life. My purpose of life is also to help my friends as much as possible, and learn to be understanding and to be empathetic. re: verse to remember: I feel my life is much more useful, when I know I'm growing in Christ. re: Q to Consider: my family would say my driving force in life is enjoying eating, and chatting with friends, and hanging out at church. I would like to start thinking of more about God's Word, less on materialism, guilt, resentment, approvel and fear. What about you? Thanks for reading

My church went through the program for 40 Days of Purpose so this is a good refresher. I believe our purpose should be to glorify God and worship Him..live a life of worship. Let every thing we do point to God, and let Christ be seen in us. Romans 12:1 says when we offer ourselves as living sacrifices that is our spiritual act of worship. Living sacrifices are not dead but live out the Word. To know God and make Him known. Loving the unlovely...that kind of love can only come from the power of God. The Bible says while we were still sinners and enemies of God, Christ died for our sins. That is the love that this world hungers for. Love God, love people. That is our purpose.

Nice to see join our discussion. I like your quote from Bible. Hope to see you posting more and more Love, Vivian

Our churh decide to read the book with the entire all the fellowship in church.

I will be starting Feb 11, Friday, starting to read this book with you. This time I will went through the entire book. For those who have read the book already, it is good to refresh it now.

As I promised early we will be back to this book. It is starting Feb 11! Wait for a little more. Thanks for your patience!

Rom 12:2 Don't become like the people of this world. Instead, change the way you think. Then you will always be able to determine what God really wants-what is good, pleasing, and perfect. 2Ti 2:7 Understand what I'm saying. The Lord will help you understand all these things. Ask God. Come before Him, and pray. Be in touch to your true self, for you cannot deceive God or yourself. Don't leave chances to delay your healing, or allow chances to make excuse. The Bible is not an self-help book, the Bible is the truth, Wisdom, Comfort, Peace and Blessing. God change the way you think with His unconditional love. Long before you were born, He has thought of you. Everything happens, or happened to you has a meaning. But we are like a doll looking outside the doll house, we don't know why we are here. A machine doesn't know why he is made, nor does he know how to use it. We have to come back to our Creator, the Manual, our Bible, to seek Wisdom, the truth. But each events happen in your life help to shape the character God has plan you to be. Song: God Will Make a Way Day 1: It All Starts With God Pro 11:28 Whoever trusts his riches will fall, but righteous people will flourish like a green leaf. Rom 8:6 The corrupt nature's attitude leads to death. But the spiritual nature's attitude leads to life and peace. Some people they seek fame. Some people they seek approval. Some people seek material. Some people seek power. But none will us become satisfied. Even if we fulfill our personal goals. We will ponder, when we will stop asking for more. We will stop looking for more and start providing others for more when we know the deep of our Creator's Love. When we knows what love is which is His Word, we will know how much more a blessing is to forgive and to give. You might think you need relationship, acheivement, fame, approval, or friends, but what you really need is to understand God's love for you. When we learnt to understand how God is loving us, we would want to love brothers and sisters of churchs and have fellowship with them. The smallest thing we did to our neighbors are love for our Lord. And that we will feel the closeness of prayer, only if we start praying to God daily. Starting with a thank you or sorry, when you start to appreacate more about your life and surrounding, and what you have done wrong. Only when we come before Lord with our confession, that God will forgive us and take our burden away. For Christ has died on the cross for our sin, we are buried with Christ in death and rise again with Christ and have eternal life. This is not a legency. This a truth. Do you understand the cross and eternal life? (Roman 5 and 6) The Cross is that Christ has been on earth, and he felt the pain people are having, and he carried our burden, our pain (which is caused by sin), and our sin on the cross. For there is no way human can make themselves clean again after Adam has sin. Eternal life is when we can come back to our Father, and have perfect fellowship with Him. Our relationship with God was perfect, but Satan deceived Eve and Adam sin, which disconnected our connection with God. Since sin live in us, we can't be made perfect ourself, this is why God sent His Son, who is perfect, to come to earth to die for us in restoring our relationship with God. But while we are on earth, we are still in flesh, so we will have temptation, even as a Christian But that now we have Christ in our heart and the Spirit of Lord, we can understand God's character and His Love for us. And because God's Love is overflowing like waterfall, we have more than enough to share with others. And we live not for ourselves anymore but for Lord. Becuase He loves, we love. Jer 17:7 Blessed is the person who trusts the LORD. The LORD will be his confidence. Jer 17:8 He will be like a tree that is planted by water. It will send its roots down to a stream. It will not be afraid in the heat of summer. Its leaves will turn green. It will not be anxious during droughts. It will not stop producing fruit. When we pray everyday and read His Words everyday, when we can count endless blessing in each single day, God will become our confidence and our relationship will be close. His love will secure us. We will no longer fear pain. When unfortunate events happens, we thanks Lord for His guide in these matters, and what might has been worse. We are thankful because we understand He must His reason for everything. We no longer angry, but peace remain in our heart, and joy to share with others. Col 1:16 He created all things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible. Whether they are kings or lords, rulers or powers- everything has been created through him and for him. Job 12:10 The life of every living creature and the spirit in every human body are in his hands. Eph 1:11 God also decided ahead of time to choose us through Christ according to his plan, which makes everything work the way he intends. Everything is within His calculation. He calcuate all the nature, human mistakes within His Perfect Plan. And we have to follow Him with faith. We are like a sheep in valley, we don't know why we have to walk through there, but the shepherd knows the best. And God knows what is best for us. As a sheep, we shall be obedience, and we have to have trust in our shepherd. If we have faith and obedience in Him, we will flouish like a star. Mat 16:25 Those who want to save their lives will lose them. But those who lose their lives for me will find them. If we obedience and have faith, we will be saved, but otherwise, we will died in sin. God allow us to make a choice. He gives us free will, and we are thereby responsible for our choices. Yet salvation was done, the only thing we need to do is to accept His grace. 1Co 2:7 We spea

1Co 2:7  We speak about the mystery of God's wisdom. It is a wisdom that has been hidden, which God had planned for our glory before the world began.

People seek Wisdom with philosophy, psychology, etc. But no one can find meaning except through Him, His Word.

Day 2: You Are Not an Accident Isaiah 44:2a Psalm 138:8a Psalm 139:15 Psalm 139:16 Acts 17:26 Ephesians 1:4a James 1:18 Isaiah 45:18 1 John 4:8 Isaiah 46:3-4 Isa 44:2 The LORD made you, formed you in the womb, and will help you. This is what the LORD says: Don’t be afraid, my servant Jacob, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen. Don’t be afraid, you might not known your own path, but you are not lost! God has always carried you along with Him in His little garden. He is preparing you to get ready for a travel trip, to look down from His high palace and get a glimpse of His Kingdom and enjoy them. But first we need to practice our skills and characters on Earth our temporary place. God knows us before we were born. He has chosen us at the beginning of time. Psa 138:8 The LORD will do everything for me. O LORD, your mercy endures forever. Do not let go of what your hands have made. Think about if God didn’t compose our DNA and leave it out to chance to create duplication of humans' eyes, nose, mouth, and ears. What are the probability? Zero! What if God didn’t leave Noah’s family alive! There is no 21st century because, the world would have end with the flood! Psa 139:15 My bones were not hidden from you when I was being made in secret, when I was being skillfully woven in an underground workshop. Psa 139:16 Your eyes saw me when I was only a fetus. Every day of my life was recorded in your book before one of them had taken place. Remember our hair is numbered. He knows each and single thoughts we have or will have. Yet from day one, even though He knows sometimes we will rebel against Him, He loves us so He creates us, and has given us so many blessing! Act 17:26 From one man he has made every nation of humanity to live all over the earth. He has given them the seasons of the year and the boundaries within which to live. Just like seasons of the year, each nation will have its rise and fall. Each man will has its rise and fall. There is a time to do certain stuff and certain specific time which God has planned. Nothing is accident. There are many boundaries we have to deal with: death, height, and FREE WILL- We have to be responsiblel for our free will when it face temptation and choices. Eph 1:4 Before the creation of the world, he chose us through Christ to be holy and perfect in his presence. God is all knowing. He knows when human is given a free will, they are going to fall, so He made an redemption plan. He sent His Son to be born of Virgin and lives on earth for 30 years before He starts to preach gospel. He sent His Son to the Cross. Would you send your son to the cross to save someone if you don’t love that person or treat that person as your own child? Jam 1:18 God decided to give us life through the word of truth to make us his most important creatures. Yes, Indeed God cherish us! Isa 45:18 The LORD created the heavens. God formed the earth and made it. He set it up. He did not create it to be empty but formed it to be inhabited. This is what the LORD says: I am the LORD, and there is no other. God didn’t just create us. He thought thoroughly before He made us. He create an environment that would just right for us. Not a little bit less or more of elements of this Earth. 1Jo 4:8 The person who doesn’t love doesn’t know God, because God is love. God is love. Until we learnt what is real love and feel it ourselves from God. You don’t know God. For God loves us, then we love. Isa 46:3 Listen to me, descendants of Jacob, the few people left of the nation of Israel. I’ve carried you since your birth. I’ve taken care of you from the time you were born. Isa 46:4 Even when you’re old, I’ll take care of you. Even when your hair turns gray, I’ll support you. I made you and will continue to care for you. I’ll support you and save you. At times we might think God has forgotten us, but NO, He is always there. He finishes what He started. And we are His workmanship. Though this passage it is about Israel, if you read Book of Jonah, you can see God meant salvation for all people.