Dennis R. Wiles

First Baptist Arlington

January 25, 2026

2026: Flourishing Together:

Transformed on The Jesus Way

Romans 12:1-2 (Gospel Guide: John)

WINTER 2026: Designed to Flourish

January 1 – February 17, 2026

Psalm 92:12-15

Pathway to Purpose

Exodus 3-4

Theme for 2026: Flourishing Together: Transformed on The Jesus Way

Theme for Winter 2026: Designed to Flourish

CALL OF GOD – Moses answered the call of God, and he discovered the pathway to purposeful living.

MOTIVATION – At the heart of the human existence is a desire for purpose and meaning.

Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose.

– Viktor Frankl

The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.

– Mark Twain

That need is for meaning. In trying to solve the fertility puzzle, thinkers have cited people’s concerns over finances, climate change, political instability, or even potential war. But in listening closely to people’s stories, I’ve detected a broader thread of uncertainty—about the value of life and a reason for being. Many in the current generation of young adults don’t seem totally convinced of their own purpose or the purpose of humanity at large, let alone that of a child. It may be that for many people, absent a clear sense of meaning, the perceived challenges of having children outweigh any subsidy the government might offer.

-Christine Emba, The Atlantic

INVITATION – God is at work in His world, and He invites us to join Him in His purposeful endeavor.

The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It’s far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God. You were born by his purpose and for his purpose.

-Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life

REALIZATION – One key in discovering our pathway to purpose is to realize that God equips us for His Kingdom endeavors.

REVELATION – The journey into a purposeful and meaningful life is dependent upon the continued revelation of God’s will in our lives.