PURPOSE IN LIFE

Live a Life of Purpose, on Purpose and for God's Purpose!

God’s heart is for every person to know Him, glorify Him, and fulfill the unique plan He has for their life. Our purpose is not just about success or personal dreams, but about being faithful to God's calling and using our lives to serve and honor Him.

• Your purpose in life is that which gives you a reason for living, the reason why God put you here on earth.

• Your purpose in life is an expression of your personal significance to God.

• Your purpose in life will be unique to you, based on God’s personalized plan for you.

You were created by the God of hope. In the Bible, God says that He created you with a specific plan for your life. Your life can be filled with hope and purpose when you choose to follow God’s will.

“ ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ ” (Jeremiah 29:11)

What Is Your Purpose in Life?

“The plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.” Psalm 33:11

Pinpointing Your Priorities

Purpose thrives on believing what’s possible, on dreaming up what can be, and by working passionately in the here and now. Nowhere in this equation is there room for what was, what didn’t work, and what could have been.

God wants your attention in the present. He wants you to “look straight ahead” because what He has for you is not behind you, it is in front of you.

“Why … am I here?”

With over 8 billion people on planet earth, is my life really significant? Can one life truly make a difference … truly have impact … truly matter? The answer is an absolute “yes” because … you have been made purposefully … you are part of a great master plan. The Bible makes this point plain …

Your purpose in life is that which gives you a reason for living, the reason why God put you here on earth.
Your purpose in life is an expression of your personal significance to God.
Your purpose in life will be unique to you, based on God’s personalized plan for you.
“To live is Christ …” The Apostle Paul found all meaning in life tied to one person, his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. All his striving, struggling, serving was for the glory of another. “Self” was sacrificed … even crucified … for the cause of Christ.
“And to die is gain …” (Philippians 1:21) Paul would continue, because he knew that the end of this temporal, physical life meant the beginning of an eternity of living in the very presence of Jesus. Could Paul have known that even after his death his purpose in life would continue on so powerfully. And, as Paul stated, it is … “In him we live and move and have our being.” (Acts 17:28)

God’s Heart on Purpose

God created every person with a unique purpose, and His heart is for us to walk in the plans, calling, and destiny He has designed. Our ultimate purpose is to know Him, glorify Him, and fulfill His will in our lives.

God's Purpose for All People

a) We Were Created for God's Glory

Isaiah 43:7 – "Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made."
- Our main purpose is to glorify God in everything we do.
1 Corinthians 10:31 – "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
- Every aspect of life—big or small—should reflect God’s glory.

b) We Are Called to Know and Love God

Matthew 22:37-38 – "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."
- Our purpose starts with a relationship with God, not just accomplishments.
John 17:3 – "Now this is eternal life: that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent."
- Knowing God personally is the foundation of our purpose.

c) We Are Called to Make Disciples

Matthew 28:19-20 – "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
- Sharing Jesus with others is part of every believer's purpose.

God's Purpose for You Personally

a) God Has a Specific Plan for Your Life

Jeremiah 29:11 – "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."
- God’s plans are good, even when we don’t fully see them yet.
Psalm 139:16 – "All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be."
- Your life is not an accident—God has a divine plan for you.

b) Your Gifts and Talents Are Part of Your Purpose

Romans 12:6 – "We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us."
- God gives each person unique abilities to serve Him and others.
Ephesians 2:10 – "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
- Your purpose includes doing good works that God designed specifically for you.

c) God Uses Even Hardships for His Purpose

Romans 8:28 – "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."
- Even struggles and challenges fit into God’s greater plan.
Genesis 50:20 – "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives."
- What others mean for harm, God can turn into purpose and blessing.

How to Walk in God's Purpose

a) Seek God Through Prayer and His Word

Proverbs 3:5-6 – "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."
- Surrendering to God leads to clarity in your purpose.
Psalm 119:105 – "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
- The Bible guides us into our God-given purpose.

b) Use Your Gifts to Serve Others

1 Peter 4:10 – "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms."
- Our gifts aren’t just for us but to bless others.

c) Trust God's Timing and Direction

Ecclesiastes 3:1 – "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."
- God’s purpose unfolds in His perfect timing.
Habakkuk 2:3 – "For the vision is yet for an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it lingers, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay."
- Be patient—God’s purpose will come to pass at the right moment.

Discovering your God-given purpose is a journey of aligning your life with God’s will and design for you. Scripture teaches that every person is uniquely created with a purpose, equipped with gifts and talents, and called to glorify God through their lives. Here’s a guide to understanding and living out your God-given purpose:

What Is a God-Given Purpose?

Your purpose is rooted in God’s overarching plan and your unique role within it. It includes:

Glorifying God: Your ultimate purpose is to honor God in everything you do (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Serving Others: You are called to love and serve others through your actions and gifts (Mark 12:30-31).
Living Out Your Calling: God has a specific plan for your life that aligns with His kingdom purposes (Jeremiah 29:11, Ephesians 2:10).

How to Discover Your God-Given Purpose

Seek God Through Prayer
- Ask God to reveal His plan for your life. Pray for wisdom, guidance, and clarity.
- Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart... He will make your paths straight."
Study Scripture
- The Bible reveals God’s desires for your life—obedience, faith, love, and service.
- Reflect on passages like Romans 12:1-8 and Matthew 28:19-20 to understand His general purposes for all believers.
Identify Your Gifts and Passions
- Consider the talents, skills, and passions God has given you.
- 1 Peter 4:10: "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others."
Listen to the Holy Spirit
- Be sensitive to the Spirit’s leading in your heart and life decisions.
- John 16:13: "When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth."
Choose Action
- Sometimes your purpose becomes clearer as you step out in faith. Volunteer, serve in your church, or pursue what God has placed on your heart.

Living Out Your Purpose

Trust God’s Timing
Your purpose may unfold gradually. Be patient and trust that God is working in and through you (Philippians 1:6).
Persevere Through Challenges
Fulfilling your purpose won’t always be easy, but God will strengthen you (Isaiah 41:10).
Focus on Eternal Impact
Ask yourself, “How can I use my gifts and opportunities to glorify God and make an eternal difference?”

Encouragement from Scripture

Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."
Ephesians 2:10: "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Misplaced Purposes

Misplaced purposes occur when we pursue goals, desires, or identities that are not aligned with God’s will. They can leave us feeling unfulfilled, disconnected from God, and ultimately without the peace and joy He intends for us. Below are characteristics of misplaced purposes and how to identify them:

1. Rooted in Self-Glorification Rather Than God’s Glory

Focus on Self: Misplaced purposes often prioritize personal gain, pride, or recognition over honoring God.
- Example: Striving for wealth or fame as the ultimate goal, rather than using resources or influence for God’s kingdom.
- Scripture: "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice" (James 3:16).

2. Temporary and Earthly Goals

Lack of Eternal Perspective: Misplaced purposes focus on material possessions, achievements, or pleasures that do not last.
- Example: Prioritizing career success over spiritual growth or relationships.
- Scripture: "What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?" (Mark 8:36).

3. Driven by Fear or Pressure

Motivated by External Expectations: Following societal norms, family expectations, or fear of failure rather than God’s calling can lead to misplaced purposes.
- Example: Choosing a career, relationship, or lifestyle to please others, rather than seeking God’s guidance.
- Scripture: "Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe" (Proverbs 29:25).

4. Leads to Restlessness or Emptiness

Lack of Fulfillment: Misplaced purposes often leave us feeling unsatisfied, even after achieving our goals.
- Example: Accomplishing a lifelong ambition but still feeling unfulfilled because it was not aligned with God’s plan.
- Scripture: "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst" (John 4:13-14).

5. Contradicts God’s Word

Out of Alignment with Scripture: A purpose that requires compromising moral or biblical principles is misplaced.
- Example: Pursuing wealth through dishonest means or prioritizing relationships that lead you away from God.
- Scripture: "There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death" (Proverbs 14:12).

6. Causes Disconnection from God and Others

Isolation and Strain: Misplaced purposes can draw you away from prayer, worship, and godly relationships.
- Example: Becoming so consumed by work or personal goals that your relationship with God and others suffers.
- Scripture: "Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine" (John 15:4).

7. Fueled by Comparison or Competition

Envy and Rivalry: Misplaced purposes are often driven by comparing yourself to others and striving to "keep up" or surpass them.
- Example: Pursuing success just to outshine someone else.
- Scripture: "Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else" (Galatians 6:4).

8. Lacks Joy and Peace

Draining and Stressful: A misplaced purpose feels like a burden instead of a joy, leading to burnout, anxiety, or despair.
- Example: Overworking yourself to achieve goals that don’t align with God’s will.
- Scripture: "The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it" (Proverbs 10:22).

How to Correct Misplaced Purposes

Seek God First:
Matthew 6:33: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Surrender to God’s Will:
Pray for guidance and be willing to let go of pursuits that don’t honor Him.
Align with Scripture:
Regularly study God’s Word to ensure your goals align with His truth.
Ask for Wisdom:
James 1:5: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you."
Focus on Eternal Impact:
Pursue goals that glorify God and bless others, leaving a lasting impact beyond this life.

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:18)

Developing a Godly Life Plan

Developing a Godly Life Plan involves aligning your goals, actions, and priorities with God’s will for your life. It’s about seeking His guidance and ensuring every aspect of your life reflects your faith. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a life plan that honors God:

1. Seek God First

Pray for Guidance: Begin with prayer, asking God to reveal His purpose for your life and direct your steps.
- Proverbs 3:5-6: "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."
Study Scripture: Immerse yourself in God’s Word to understand His principles and promises.
- Psalm 119:105: "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

2. Understand Your Purpose

Glorify God: Your ultimate purpose is to honor God in all you do.
- 1 Corinthians 10:31: "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."
Serve Others: Part of your life plan should include loving and serving others.
- Mark 12:30-31: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart... and love your neighbor as yourself."
Identify Your Gifts: Recognize the talents, skills, and passions God has given you and use them for His glory.
- Ephesians 2:10: "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

3. Set God-Centered Goals

Spiritual Goals: Grow in your relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, worship, and obedience.
- Example: Commit to daily devotions, joining a Bible study, or fasting regularly.
Relational Goals: Build and maintain Christ-centered relationships.
- Example: Strengthen your marriage, mentor others, or invest in godly friendships.
Career/Financial Goals: Pursue a career or financial plan that reflects integrity and stewardship.
- Example: Tithe regularly, avoid debt, and work with excellence.
Personal Growth Goals: Develop habits that glorify God, such as cultivating discipline, health, and wisdom.
- Example: Read books that strengthen your faith, take care of your body, or learn new skills.

4. Align Your Priorities with God’s Plan

God First: Ensure that your spiritual health takes precedence over everything else.
- Matthew 6:33: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Family and Relationships: Invest time and love into those God has placed in your life.
Work and Ministry: Let your work and service reflect your faith and values.
Rest and Renewal: Make time for Sabbath rest and self-care to stay refreshed in God.

5. Create a Practical Framework

Write It Down: Document your goals and plans so you can stay focused and intentional.
Set Milestones: Break long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps.
- Example: If your goal is to read the Bible in a year, plan a daily reading schedule.
Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly review your plan to ensure it remains aligned with God’s will.

6. Stay Rooted in Faith

Depend on the Holy Spirit: Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your decisions and give you strength.
- John 16:13: "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth."
Be Open to God’s Timing: Trust God’s timing and be patient when things don’t go as planned.
- Ecclesiastes 3:1: "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."
Practice Gratitude: Thank God for His blessings and faithfulness along the way.

7. Surround Yourself with Godly Influences

Seek Wise Counsel: Surround yourself with mentors and friends who encourage and challenge you in your walk with Christ.
- Proverbs 11:14: "For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers."
Be Part of a Community: Join a local church or small group to stay accountable and grow spiritually.

8. Be Ready to Adjust

Remain Flexible: God’s plan for your life may evolve over time. Be willing to adapt as He leads.
- Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Trust God’s Sovereignty: Even when life takes unexpected turns, trust that God is in control.

Choosing Purposeful Goals

Choosing goals that align with your purposes and values is essential for living a meaningful and God-honoring life. Below is a breakdown of how to define and choose the right goals based on the principles you mentioned:

1. Goals That Are Specific

Why It Matters: Vague goals are difficult to pursue because they lack clarity. Being specific ensures focus and a clear direction.
Example: Instead of saying, “I want to grow spiritually,” specify, “I will read one chapter of the Bible daily and spend 15 minutes in prayer each morning.”
Practical Tip: Ask yourself what you want to accomplish and what steps are necessary to achieve it.

2. Goals That Are Reachable

Why It Matters: Unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and discouragement. Reachable goals encourage progress and perseverance.
Example: Instead of aiming to memorize the entire Bible in a year, start with one book, such as Psalms or John.
Practical Tip: Set goals that stretch you but are realistic based on your resources, time, and current circumstances.

3. Goals With a Deadline for Completion

Why It Matters: Deadlines create urgency and accountability, preventing procrastination.
Example: “I will complete a 30-day devotional study by the end of next month.”
Practical Tip: Break long-term goals into smaller, time-bound milestones.

4. Goals That Are Not Dependent on Others for Success

Why It Matters: While collaboration is valuable, goals dependent on others can lead to disappointment if circumstances outside your control change.
Example: Instead of setting a goal like, “I’ll lead a group of 10 people in Bible study,” focus on, “I’ll prepare and lead a weekly Bible study for anyone who attends.”
Practical Tip: Ensure your progress relies primarily on your effort, prayer, and God’s guidance.

5. Goals That Benefit Others

Why It Matters: God calls us to serve and love others, and goals that benefit others align with His will and bring lasting impact.
Example: “I will volunteer at the local food bank twice a month” or “I’ll mentor a younger believer for six months.”
Practical Tip: Consider how your goals can meet the needs of others or advance God’s kingdom.

6. Goals That Do Not Contradict the Will of God

Why It Matters: Any goal that violates God’s principles will ultimately lead to spiritual harm or failure, no matter how appealing it seems.
Example: Avoid goals like “I’ll do whatever it takes to make more money,” which might tempt dishonesty or greed. Instead, pursue goals like, “I will practice financial stewardship by budgeting and tithing regularly.”
Practical Tip: Pray and examine your goals in light of Scripture to ensure alignment with God’s will.

Putting It All Together: SMART + GODLY Goals

A helpful framework is the SMART method, adapted for godly living:

Specific: What exactly do you want to accomplish?
Measurable: How will you track progress?
Attainable: Is this realistic and achievable?
Relevant: Does this align with your purpose and God’s will?
Time-bound: When will you complete this goal?

Example of a Godly Goal

Goal: “I will spend 15 minutes in prayer and Bible study every morning for the next 30 days to deepen my relationship with God.”
- Specific: 15 minutes in prayer and Bible study.
- Reachable: 15 minutes is a reasonable time commitment.
- Deadline: 30 days.
- Not Dependent on Others: This is a personal goal you can complete independently.
- Benefits Others: Your spiritual growth can overflow into relationships and ministry.
- Aligned with God’s Will: Spending time with God aligns with biblical principles.

Things to Consider

Pray for Wisdom: Always begin with prayer, asking God to guide your goal-setting process (James 1:5).
Evaluate Regularly: Revisit your goals often to ensure they remain relevant and aligned with God’s will.
Be Flexible: Be open to adjusting goals as God reveals new opportunities or challenges.
Celebrate Progress: Give thanks to God for every milestone, no matter how small (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Key Verses to Learn

“We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

(Romans 8:28)

“I cry out to God Most High, to God, who fulfills his purpose for me.”

(Psalm 57:2)

Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’ ”

(Genesis 1:26)

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails”

(Proverbs 19:21).

“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord”

(Psalm 27:14).

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do”

(Ephesians 2:10).

“My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.”

(John 15:12)

“We make it our goal to please him”

(2 Corinthians 5:9).

“If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land”

(Isaiah 1:19).

“Those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son”

(Romans 8:29).

“ ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ ”

(Jeremiah 29:11)

“He who fears the Lord has a secure fortress.”

(Proverbs 14:26)

“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”

(Luke 12:6–7)

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

(John 3:16)

Key Passage to Read

The book of Ecclesiastes

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