Purposed

Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand (Proverbs 19:21 ESV).

In my twenties, all I wanted was to discover myself, to become who I was meant to be. Everything I did was in effort to answer the question, “What is my purpose?” I was asking that question from a self-focused and self-serving place. I wanted to become something great, to feel successful and accomplished in my life. Never once did I say, I just want to serve the Lord. The truth is, I still wanted to serve my own will for my life. 

I’m not saying that seeking clarity on where God would have you serve in this season is bad. In fact, I encourage prayer for the Lord’s direction. He has gifted all of us uniquely and wants us to be fruitful with those gifts. But our purpose as Christians is clearly stated in the Bible. 

And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned (Mark 16:15-16 ESV).

The purpose placed on our life is simply to share the good news we have heard. In whatever way possible. Our purpose is not about us, it is all about Jesus. This world tells us to aspire, accomplish, and accumulate. But God has already given us all that we need. Second Peter 1:3 says, His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness. 

The world wants us puffed up, put on a pedestal and placed above everyone else. I have found, though, that ministry is best done on the ground. It is not the CEO or celebrity that people can relate to but the everyday, unglamorous person who also struggles and depends on Christ for their strength. 

It is not the platform we have that makes a real difference but the character in our hearts and our willingness to serve. When I was called to write, it was simply the most practical way for me to share the gospel and encourage others. The same goes for the administrative work I do for my church. I did not get an education in these areas and I am not even highly skilled. But the Lord has gifted me according to His will and helps me because I am being obedient to His direction.

“ For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption, so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1: 26-31 ESV)

When you are serving the purpose the Lord has for you, it is not always exciting or noteworthy. In fact, it takes discipline and sacrifice most of the time. Think about Paul’s life of persecution and imprisonment. Reading through the New Testament, the apostles endured many uncomfortable situations to further the gospel. Jesus did not have a title of stature but was in service to others and hated by many. If the Son of Man came to serve, we should too. True ministry starts when we stop trying to become and start asking, “How can I help?”

This isn’t to say you will not enjoy your ministry. A different kind of satisfaction comes when serving the Lord’s purpose. A lot of the time though, it is not instant gratification, but lasts much longer. This fulfillment is worth well over the cost of discipline because it is enjoyed in this life and for eternity. I could not number the times I have been unexpectedly blessed with joy and delight through ministry.

If you are struggling to find your purpose, I encourage you to think simply. What are practical ways you can share the gospel with those around you? How can you be most helpful to the church body? Does your character reflect that of Christ in everyday interactions? I have confidence that if you seek the Lord on these things, He will direct you.

Remember to prioritize firsthand Bible reading every day, only the Word has the power to transform. "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV