Created for a Purpose - iBelieve Truth - August 22, 2023
Created for a Purpose
By Laura Bailey
“From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.” - Acts 17:26, NIV
“10 Questions to Help You Find Your Purpose!” I couldn’t help but sneak a peek at the magazine that promised that in 10 “simple” questions, one could find their reason for being. While the article didn't say anything discouraging, I found it saddening that a person would turn to a magazine to search for their purpose in life.
But a quick search through social media, google, or the local bookstore shows that humans are searching for their purpose and identity; they want someone or something to tell them they are valuable and essential. There are countless quizzes, questions, and quests to help people find meaning. The truth is, people don’t need another book on purpose; we already have the answers!
If you are wondering why you were here on earth, there it is: to bring God glory, to be in a relationship with Him!
There are many ways we can bring glory to the Lord, and while we were all created for the same purpose, God has unique plans and assignments for each person— but ultimately, living in such a way that God gets the glory.
What a relief to know that we don’t have to strive to make our lives look good but instead let our lives point to a good God.
And for further evidence that your life has a purpose, Acts 17:26 tells us nothing about where we live, our race, or time period, is by chance. God has divinely appointed you for “such a time as this, ( Esther 4:14.)
You don’t have to wonder if your life has meaning, you don’t need to wrestle with discontentment in your current circumstance, and you can stop trying to find your purpose. You have purpose because you were created in the image of God, and He wants to use you for His Glory– to share the Goods News of His love and mercy for sinners.
Our unique story is a special way God equips us to share the bigger, greater story of the gospel. You may not be able to recite the Roman road or ABCs of salvation eloquently, but you can easily recall who you were before Christ, how He rescued you, and what your life is like now for others!
Our family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors need to hear that God loves them and sent His Son, Jesus, to die for their sins so they can have eternal life by believing in Him.
Nothing is by chance; where you live, your job, the people you interact with, God ordains your family all—Each day provides an opportunity to share our eternal hope.
Has a colleague said she feels overwhelmed and grieved by her current circumstances? Invite her for coffee and share where you find hope when life is hard.
Do you have a friend who is wrestling with her faith? Be a safe space for her to talk through her struggles, gently guiding her to seek out our heavenly Father.
Maybe a family member decided that church and God “just isn’t for them.” Prayerfully consider writing them a note of encouragement, letting them know they are always welcome in the Lord’s house.
I admit even the most passionate of Christ-followers can feel overwhelmed at sharing their faith. But, friend, this is a matter of life and death; we could have an eternal impact on those around us and future generations by simply sharing our hope in Christ. Who will you share your story with today?
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us purpose simply by creating us! May we live in a way that brings You glory, honor, and praise. Help us to remember that we don’t have to strive to earn the approval, acceptance, and adoration of others. Help us be bold for the Gospel, freely sharing our eternal hope in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Motortion
She lives in Upstate South Carolina with her husband and three young girls, where she serves as director of women's ministries at her church. Her passion is teaching the Bible to women, equipping them to live with an eternal perspective. Invite Laura to speak at your next event or learn more: www.LauraRBailey.com
Related Resource: Jesus Calling - Stories of Faith
Kerry Washington, Andrea Bocelli, Reba McEntire, Mark Wahlberg, Tony Dungy, and Matthew McConaughey—what do all of these people have in common? They are all people of faith who have leaned on God in both the good and challenging times—and they’ve shown up to tell their stories of faith on The Jesus Calling Podcast. The Jesus Calling Podcast provides a place for people from all walks of life to share the heartaches, joys, and divine moments that keep them going.
Inspired by Sarah Young's classic devotional book, the Jesus Calling podcast has brought encouragement and peace to millions. New episodes drop every Thursday! Listen today on LifeAudio.com or wherever you find your podcasts.
