Photo by Daniel Jensen on Unsplash
You don’t want to just live, you want to live for something definite. You want to have a purpose bigger than yourself. We are given maximum opportunities to choose in our modern world. This amazing freedom to choose our own paths often leave us crippled with the burden of how do we find purpose and meaning. New books, seminars, and TV programs come out daily suggesting quick and easy ways to find meaning and purpose.
But the question still comes back to us as individuals; Why am I here?
Our world answers this question in many ways. People seek purpose in others through kindness, philanthropy, service, and family. While others give in to their base nature and focus on personal pleasure, fame, money, and sex. Some evaluate their life from the It’s a Wonderful Life standard–“Did my life make a difference?”
Yet, I boldly say all of these attempts to find purpose fall short. They still can leave us empty and wondering, “Weren’t we created for something greater than ourselves?”
Ultimately the only answer that will satisfy, inspire, and comfort is found in God. Paul, when preaching in Antioch of Pisidia, references the great king and prophet David. He, in one of his side comments, captures the purpose of life. He writes, “David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation fell asleep” (Acts 13:36). Did you catch that? It captures your purpose! Your duty is to “serve the purpose of God in your generation.” Life isn’t about filling up your own pleasure, or even simply being a good, kind person. The big purpose is living each day to the glory of God. Feeling a deep sense of purpose, calling, and responsibility to glorify and honor God. This world is the story of God’s work with humanity. We are bit characters asked to do our part in pointing others to the main character; Jesus Christ.
David had his failures and his many successes. But his purpose and aim was to do God’s will during his lifetime. We can’t waste the one life God has given us. We only get to burn our candle once! We must choose to burn it for the glory of God. Amazingly, when we put God’s purpose and will first, we find joy, peace, contentment, and comfort. Our life matters. We have a purpose greater than just earning money or even loving family. We make a difference for the God of the universe.
Why are you here? You are here to fulfill God’s purpose in your generation; that is you are to represent God in your circle of influence and seek His will during the time he allots to you. It’s your turn now! Go and live for God.
