How to Triumph Over the Feeling of Being a Black Sheep: A Guide to Embracing God's Purpose for your life.

Understanding the Label of the Black Sheep versus God's Purpose for your Life.

Have you ever felt the sting of exclusion? Often, those labeled as the Black Sheep experience sadness, loneliness, and a sense of unworthiness because they are treated differently from other family members. It's not their uniqueness that causes the pain, but the label itself.

The World’s View on Conformity

The world values conformity. Many conflicts arise over social differences within families and countries. However, when a person embraces their identity in God and renounces labels, they gain amazing strength of character. God loves a good comeback story.

God's Perspective on Remnants

What is God's Purpose for your life? He calls his people to be Remnants. In His Kingdom, nothing is ever wasted. He adorned His temples with the remnants of cloth that others would consider scraps.

The original definition for the word Remnant:

Leipo: to leave, leave behind (I leave behind, abandon) I am wanting, to come behind (in a race), to fall short of (some standard).

The Power of the Remnant in the Bible

David and Goliath: The Underdog's Victory

Goliath, a heavily armed Philistine giant, challenged King Saul's army for 40 days, demanding a man to fight him. No one dared to face Goliath until young David volunteered. Armed only with a sling and stones, David stepped forward. With a single stone, David struck Goliath in the forehead, killing him instantly. David, the youngest of eight brothers and considered insignificant, was chosen by God to have great purpose! He went from working as a shepherd, to being crowned King.

Facing incredible odds, David, a young shepherd, knew that if he lost, his people would become slaves to the Philistines. Goliath, over nine feet tall with armor weighing around 150 pounds, mocked David for showing up with a slingshot. David responded that he came in the name of the Lord of hosts, declaring that the Lord would deliver Goliath into his hand (1 Samuel 17:42-50). After defeating Goliath, David used the giant's own sword to decapitate him.

A Biblical characteristic of a Remnant is Bravery. David volunteered to fight Goliath because he was offended by how Goliath spoke about his God. In turn, God gave David the victory over defeat.

Noah: Faith Against the Odds

Noah spent 100 years building an Ark during a time when the ozone layer was thick, and the earth was covered in mist. Before there was ever heavy rain, Noah was building a boat for a flood. The people of the time were indifferent to God; only Noah honored Him. Can you imagine what the people thought when they saw Noah building his big boat?

The people in Noah's time were corrupt and hostile. They knew God, but they did not glorify Him. They ignored Him and showed no gratitude. Noah tried to warn people for many years, but they didn't care. God waited patiently for a change in their hearts and finally instructed Noah to build a boat to save himself and his family. God's had great Purpose for Noah.

A Biblical characteristic of a Remnant is Integrity. Noah was faithful, kept his word, and obeyed God. In turn, God warned him and saved his family from the flood (Genesis 6:8).

Moses: From Adoption to Leadership

Moses's parents placed him in a reed basket and set him adrift on the Nile to save his life. He was found by Pharaoh's daughter and raised in the Egyptian court. Despite his stammer, God called Moses to save his people from slavery. He led about 2 million Israelites out of Egypt and brought them to their promised land.

In his 20s, during an inspection tour, Moses saw the oppression of his people. Witnessing an Egyptian taskmaster beating a Hebrew, he lost control, killed the Egyptian, and fled to Arabia. There, he married and started a family.

When he was about 80 years old, God called him to free his people from slavery. Moses demanded Pharaoh release the Israelites at least 10 times before they were finally freed.

A Biblical characteristic of a Remnant is Justice. Moses was a humble man with a deep sense of social justice. He found confidence in God, not himself. God had amazing purpose for Moses and spoke to hum face to face, as a man speaks to his friend (Exodus 33:11). For more about Moses's sense of social justice, read (Exodus 2:11-15).

Jesus: The Original Remnant

Jesus was born into many challenges. His mother was unwed and could have been stoned. People looked down on Him for His lineage. His father was a carpenter, and when Jesus spoke in His hometown, people did not accept that a man from such humble beginnings could be the Messiah. They tried to push Him off a cliff. He was ultimately killed for going against the Church leaders.

The same people He healed were the ones who called for His death. He is the Original Remnant.

At 30 years old, Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. Three days later, He performed His first miracle. At a wedding party where they had run out of wine, His mother asked for His help. Out of love for His mother, He turned water into the best wine  (John 2:1-11)

A Biblical characteristic of a Remnant is Compassion. Throughout His life, Jesus often acted out of compassion. He healed multitudes and had a deep compassion for people. (John11:32-33), (Luke 7:11-15), J(John19:26-27). He stood up to the religious leaders who repressed people and prioritized correctness over kindness. Ultimately, He gave His life as the ultimate sacrifice. God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, and dearly loved Jesus (Mathew 3:17). Jesus was God's Purpose in flesh.

The Temple of God: Embracing Our Identity as Remnants

When our differences are measured by the world’s need for conformity, we often feel left out and unworthy. But when we see our identity through God's eyes, we become the adorned parts of His temple, embraced and used for great purposes. The Bible says that God is the same Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. God has purpose for you too! (Ephesians 2:10)

Example Biblical Quotes: Building Character into a Warrior Remnant

These powerful Bible verses can serve as a source of immense encouragement and guidance, God's Purpose for your life is to be an amazing Remnant.

Ephesians 6:10-11 (follow this link to read more!)

Ephesians 6:10-11 reminds us to "be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes." This verse emphasizes that with God's strength and protection, you can face any challenge with confidence and courage.

Joshua 1:9 (follow this link to read more!)

Joshua 1:9 urges us to "be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." This assurance of God's unwavering presence empowers you to overcome fear and discouragement.

2 Timothy 2:3-4 (follow this link to read more!)

Finally 2 Timothy 2:3-4

calls us to "endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer." This verse highlights the importance of dedication, resilience, and focusing on God's mission. Together, these scriptures reinforce your identity as a courageous, faithful, and dedicated remnant, equipped to fulfill God's purpose and shine brightly in a world that often values conformity over individuality.

Be Counted Among the Remnant

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