As a young man, I recall the challenge of trying to determine my purpose in life. Like so many others, I too wrestled with the idea of discerning that single passion for which I had been created. In addition, I longed to discover that specific line-of-work that would satisfy the deep yearnings for significance at the same time. While this was not a simple endeavor, I found guidance and comfort from Scripture.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Trusting in God’s guidance and submitting to His will is crucial in discovering your purpose. Sometimes, the thoughts and ideas that we have regarding our purpose in life may not fully align with the thoughts and direction of God’s Word and the promptings of His Spirit. It’s in these moments that we must trust first in God’s wisdom and follow His lead. Doing so will certainly lead us to experience a more fulfilling life. Along these lines, the prophet Jeremiah speaks on God’s behalf and tells us (His people):
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV): “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
This too reminds us that God has a specific plan for each of our lives, plans that are filled with hope and the promise of a future. The application of such knowledge is that we must learn to trust in Him. We must come to grips with the realization that our purpose is a part of His bigger plan for accomplishing His purposes within our world. The apostle Paul expounds upon this idea of plans and purpose for our lives when he writes:
Ephesians 2:10 (NIV): “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Paul states clearly that our lives are not accidents or somehow directed by happenstance. To the contrary, we are God’s masterpieces, created with unique gifts and talents for the express purpose of doing good works which He has sovereignly prepared for us. Therefore, our purpose in life must involve utilizing our strengths and gifts for the betterment of others and the fulfillment of His Kingdom purposes. And while all of this is true and incredibly significant to our calling (or purpose) in life. There seems to be something even more important for us to remember.
As Matthew reports, Jesus Himself stated:
Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV): “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself'”
According to Jesus, loving God and loving others are central to me finding and fulfilling my purpose in life. By seeking to love and serve God and likewise, loving and serving others I align my pursuits with the core teachings of Jesus. Moreover, I find fulfillment in my divine purpose. And, what is true for me — is also true for you!
I listened to a leadership vlog earlier this week that addressed this subject and really got me thinking. My relationship with Jesus is more important that my productivity for Him. Therefore, my calling and purpose in life is really to be connected to Him. Pastor Vance Pitman of Hope Church, Las Vegas put it this way, “The primary call on my life is not to do something for Jesus. The primary call on my life is to be with Jesus.” The Westminster Shorter Catechism agrees. As it begins the discipleship process, it does so with this question, “What is the chief end of man?” It then answers this question in this way, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy Him forever.” This means that every aspect of our lives, from our daily routines to our grandest achievements, should be done in a way that reflects the character and nature of God. When we glorify God, we acknowledge His supreme worthiness and sovereignty in our lives. God desires not only that we glorify Him but also that we find our deepest joy and satisfaction in Him. Therefore, true and lasting happiness can only be found through our communion with Him (our Creator).
Incorporating these biblical principles and scriptural truths into your life can serve as a solid foundation for discovering and living out your purpose. Remember that your purpose is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it’s unique to you and your relationship with God. Seek His guidance through prayer, study of His Word, and through the guidance of wise and spiritual mentors to find your path and purpose in accordance with His divine plan.