Hi friends,

It’s been a while since I’ve written about a #realtalkwithrachael topic. Mostly because I am working on launching the “Real Talk with Rachael” podcast (more info on that coming soon)!

I recently stepped down from a position that some might consider having great influence. When I shared with someone that I stepped down from it, she said: “wow, I can’t believe you would give up that position”.

Our conversation has made me reevaluate my “why” on things I do in life. It can be so tempting to stay in a job or position of leadership simply because it is a highly sought after position. But if we stay somewhere to have bragging rights on what we do, then we are being led by our selfish idols rather than our God-given purpose.

Position.

The word position means “the place where someone or something has been put“.

When you think about positions in life, what comes to mind? Many of us may think about a position at work, in ministry or online influence. Being put in a position can be a great thing that God uses to bless us and others. However, the key phrase is “has been put”.

How often do we try to place ourselves in position? We position ourselves to be seen, noticed and heard. We jump through hoops of fire to get recognized and promoted. We bend over backward to please people all the while having a selfish motive to get promoted to that dream position. And don’t get me started on all we do to get noticed online (Can Instagram just do away with the “followers” feature already?!)

A position doesn’t just have to be a title. It can also be a position of friendship or relationship. Raise your hand if you ever dreamed of being besties with that person you look up to? I’m over here raising both hands. We are all guilty of trying to manipulate ourselves into position. But when God shines a light on it we must be quick to repent and redirect.

Purpose.

The word purpose means “the reason for which something is done or created“.

Did you know that God has a plan and purpose for your life? (See Jeremiah 29:11) But often times, we bypass his plan when we stop living on purpose and instead live for position.

What makes you come alive? What could you talk about all day without stopping to eat? What would you do for free?

Those things that excite you are your God-given passions. He strategically placed those inside of you so HE could place you in the position that is assigned especially to you. Sometimes where he places us changes with seasons and we must be willing to let go when he says it’s time to move on to something different. This is easier said than done.

You are unique and wonderfully made. This means you have a special assignment (ie: position) only you can fulfill.

What if we all stopped striving and started abiding? It’s time we rest in him knowing that he will place us in position with the right friends, mentors, jobs, and opportunities that align with our passions and purpose.

Please know that I am not preaching from a soapbox but, instead, I am in the trenches with you.

Let’s live life on purpose from the overflow of our passions.

In it with you,

Rachael Joy