Ephesians 2:10 (NLT) tells us, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” This verse emphasizes our Heavenly Father’s purpose for our lives—to reflect the likeness of Jesus Christ in every possible way. Each encounter, experience, and event in our lives has the potential to lead us to a deeper understanding and expression of Christ’s character. Life, then, becomes a journey of faith and growth, where we continually strive to align ourselves with God’s Will and understand His expectations for us better.
Living without recognizing our purpose often leads to feelings of emptiness, disappointment, and confusion. However, when we embrace our identity as God’s creation and align our lives with His plan, blessings abound. Romans 8:28 (NLT) says it best: “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.” Everything falls into place when we’re in sync with God’s plan for us. This is our barometer for measuring how far or how close we are to the path He’s ordained for our lives.
Years ago, the buzz around this concept of ‘purpose’ was palpable. Almost everyone seemed to be on a quest to discover and fulfill their individual purpose, as if realizing that life was not meant to be lived aimlessly was a groundbreaking revelation. Simply drifting through each day, taking whatever comes our way, isn’t a recipe for true joy and fulfillment. Living with purpose requires that we actively pursue God’s Will through faith and surrender our lives to His guidance. Jesus Christ teaches us in Matthew 6:33 (NLT), “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” Above our own personal agendas, above our own desires, goals, and aspirations, Jesus Christ emphasizes that we must seek God and His Kingdom first. It’s the very essence of why we were created, and it’s an occupation that will consume our entire lives.
In Matthew 16:19 (NLT), our Lord and Savior said to Peter, “And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven. Whatever you forbid on earth will be forbidden in heaven, and whatever you permit on earth will be permitted in heaven.” This profound blessing and responsibility is not only bestowed upon Peter, but upon all who have given their lives to Christ. We are Kingdom dwellers as God’s sons and daughters, and the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven symbolize the authority and access we’ve been given. We have a role in His plan, and He expects us to be committed to it.
Ephesians 1:11(NLT) says, “Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.” Living with purpose involves recognizing our identity as children of God and embracing a deeper understanding of our identity and role in His plan. It’s about surrendering our will to His and trusting that His guidance leads to our ultimate fulfillment. By aligning our actions, decisions, and priorities with His Will, blessings beautifully unfold as we trust that He has a perfect plan for our lives. As we seek God’s Kingdom first, we discover that our true fulfillment comes from serving Him and others, rather than pursuing fleeting desires or ambitions. This change in perspective transforms every aspect of our lives, giving even the most ordinary moments purpose and meaning.
Jesus Christ makes it clear to us in Matthew 6:33 that only God can give us all that we need. His blessings abundantly flow as we position ourselves on the path to fulfilling His purpose. This involves seeking His Will through prayer, aligning our priorities with His Word, and obeying His commands. As we commit to serving others selflessly and following the example of Christ, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s guidance in our lives. Many people living today struggle to find meaning and purpose in life, but the way to fulfillment and joy remains unchanged. It’s found in continually seeking God’s direction and trusting His plans for us, recognizing that He is always working for our good and His glory. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Embracing God’s Purpose – the Path to Fulfillment and Joy”, written by Fran Mack. Edits by Kim Times and K. Stephens for Sundie Morning Sistas ©2024. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord! SMS is dedicated to inspiring and encouraging Christian Women through the Word of God.
