21/06/2026
*Identity, Purpose and Calling*
- *Speaker* : Elder Chibuike Okpara
*Scripture References*
- 1 Peter 13:9b - quoted to emphasize glorifying God and being called out of darkness into His light.
- Ephesians 2:10 - used to show we are God's workmanship created to do good works (our calling is service).
*Central Message*
The core message: stay connected to God, identify the specific calling He created you for, and align your life so you actively serve and glorify Him. Losing connection leads to loss of identity and function; discovering your calling brings self-discovery and a steady spiritual anchor.
*Key Points*
1. Small trials and "bitness" are necessary steps to pass through growth; they shape identity.
1. Never disconnect from God — disconnection leads to sin, loss of function, and identity destruction.
1. Your environment will begin to recognize you; spiritual and physical responsibilities ("sensitive parts") will be assigned as you mature.
1. Signs of self-discovery: you stop certain behaviors naturally, your personal prayer life deepens, and you begin to create and shape who God made you to be.
1. Purpose and calling: you exist to glorify God (scriptural basis given) and to do the works God prepared for you. Calling is the specific way you express and serve your people.
1. Calling can change over time and cannot be authentically copied from another person — imitate neither role nor reward.
1. God can and will replace those who misuse their calling; stewardship matters.
1. Authentic ministry is not entertainment or paid performance; true ministry manifests in genuine hearing, obedience, and service.
*Notable Quotes*
"If you disconnect from God, you will no longer function."
"Sin is very easy. That's where the devil is using to destroy identity."
"We are the workmanship created in Christ unto good works."
"What do you want God to do for you?" (a call to personal prayer and clarity)
*Application*
- Guard your connection to God daily: prioritize honest prayer, listening, and repentance so you continue to function spiritually.
- Pursue consistent study and ask God for grace to study — make learning and prayer a daily habit.
- Look for signs of assignment in your environment; steward responsibilities with integrity.
- Seek to discover and confirm your calling by asking God specific questions (e.g., "What would You have me do?") and by serving where your gifts and God’s purposes meet.
- Avoid imitating others’ callings or treating ministry as a performance; focus on authentic service that aligns with heaven.
- Take warnings about replacement seriously: be faithful and humble in stewardship of gifts and opportunities.
*Prayer Points*
- Pray for grace to study and the discipline to develop the life God wants you to live.
- Pray for clarity and revelation of your specific calling and purpose.
- Pray for protection from disconnection, temptation, and identity destruction.
- Pray for healing and progress (speaker ministered healing imagery: "ankle up").
- Pray for boldness to reveal and serve the peoples God created you for.
*Reflection Questions*
1. What would you ask God to do for you right now?
1. In what ways have you experienced small trials that are shaping your identity?
1. Are you clearly connected to God in daily practice, or is there a danger of disconnection?
1. What practical steps will you take this week to discover or steward your calling?
