The purpose of your life is much greater than your achievements, your peace of mind, or your pleasure. It is much bigger than your family, your career, or your aspirations. If you wish to learn why you were called here on earth, you must start with your creator, God. God designed you for His purpose. For thousands of years, people have been searching for the meaning and purpose of their existence, but many never find it. Why? Because they commonly begin at the false starting point, themselves.
When we start with ourselves, we ask self-centered questions such as, “What do I want to be? What should I do with my life? What are my ambitions, dreams, and desires?” By focusing on ourselves, we will unlikely know what God’s purpose for our life is.
Scriptures summarize God’s purpose-filled life;
Love the Lord with all your heart (worship), Love your neighbor as yourself (ministry) Make disciples (evangelism), baptize them (fellowship) and teach them to obey (discipleship).
Knowing your purpose gives meaning to your life. God made us to have meaning. Without God, life has no purpose, and without purpose, we have no goal. God says, “I know what I am planning for you… I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future.” (Jeremiah 29:11). Our secular society tells us we can be whatever we want to be. Work hard and persist. I wanted to be a professional singer growing up. I was in the school choir in middle school and high school. When Karaoke became popular, I was at the bar on a weekly business just hoping someone would discover me. I can sing but I truly don’t have a professional voice to sell records. God didn’t bless me with that talent. I love art, but I can’t even draw stick figures! To pursue something, I wanted to do instead of tapping in on my gifts that God has given me, would have left me feeling frustrated.
Knowing your purpose simplifies your life. It defines what you do and what you can’t do. Ask yourself, “Does this activity help me fulfill one of God’s purposes for my life?” Without a clear purpose, it is difficult to make the correct decisions. People that don’t know their purpose often try to do too much-causing stress and conflict. For those of you that can never say no to others’ requests, keep in mind, you are here for God’s purpose, not for others. It’s impossible to do everything other people want you to do.
How can you bring glory to God? By worshiping Him, by fellowship and loving others, by becoming like Christ through discipleship, by serving others with our gifts, and by telling others about the Lord Jesus Christ. God’s purpose for our life is to glorify His name.