“For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” – Philippians 1:21 (NKJV)
If you bought a Samsung device and needed help using it, you’d seek help from the manual. But if you found a Tecno manual in the box instead, you’d likely discard it, knowing only the Samsung guide is reliable.
Similarly, the only reliable source for understanding our purpose on earth is God, our Creator. However, like a wrong manual, many opinions exist about our purpose. To truly understand it, we must first identify and discard these misleading ideas by understanding what purpose is not.
Firstly, purpose is not about constant happiness. While living out your purpose brings joy and fulfilment, it’s not the same as always being happy. There’s a common belief that once you find your purpose, life will be all laughter and ease. In reality, pursuing purpose involves hard work, discipline, and even bearing burdens.
In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us to find rest in Him, but He also tells us to take up His yoke. This means that purpose brings peace and rest to our souls but doesn’t eliminate work or responsibility. Instead, we are given meaningful burdens that align with God’s will. So, while purpose may come with challenges, it’s fulfilling because these burdens have divine significance.
Secondly, purpose is not the same as your job or career. While your job can be a tool to fulfil your purpose, it isn’t your purpose. You may achieve great success, wealth, and professional accolades, but these hold no eternal value. Our primary purpose, as given by God, is the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18). What truly matters before God is not the earthly titles we’ve earned but how we’ve used our time and resources to further His kingdom.
Lastly, purpose is not just about fulfilment; it involves both fulfilment and sacrifice. While pursuing what brings us joy and satisfaction can make us happy, these aren’t necessarily the things we’re called to live or die for. True purpose goes beyond personal satisfaction—it’s about something worth sacrificing our lives for because of its eternal significance. Jesus exemplified this by laying down His life for us, showing that purpose often demands selflessness and sacrifice (John 15:13).
As we explore purpose this week, endeavour to remember what it is not. This will enable you to embrace and walk in purpose.
Dear friends, trust God, your creator and the one who holds the blueprint for your life, because in Him alone can you find your true purpose.
Bible Reading Plan: 1 Corinthians 13-14