January 14, 2010

Life Purpose

Written by Boyd Bailey

Life Purpose… “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16, NKJV

What is your life purpose? What is the Lord’s life purpose for you? Perhaps a good starting point is to glorify God. Glory to God keeps the glory from going to a person, team or institution. It is built-in accountability against pride and envy. Glory to God gives Him the credit due His name and it shows the world who is responsible for your success.

I like what one friend said, “I want to glorify God by loving Him completely, loving myself correctly and loving others compassionately” (Ken Boa). The object of our affections receives our attention and energy. And when our motivation behind our efforts is to glorify God, it causes curiosity around those affected. Who is this Lord you love? Why do you have such confidence that Christ cares? How can I experience God like you?

Good works, attached to God’s glory, gives a greater purpose to the recipient of grace. “If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:11). As you humbly serve you are able to show others what Jesus is like.

So consider crafting a purpose statement that reflects the Lord’s plan for your life. Use it as a compass to keep you aligned around the Almighty’s priorities for this season of life. Perhaps you write it out and develop its meaning for your children to understand and embrace. Search the Scriptures and find a verse or verses that define your purpose. My purpose is to “Glorify God by being a faithful husband, available father, loyal friend and loving leader.” What’s yours? God brings success when you fulfill His purpose.

“For a long time now—to this very day—you have not deserted your brothers but have carried out the mission the LORD your God gave you” (Joshua 22:3).

What is God’s purpose for my life? How can I best bring Him glory in fulfilling His purpose?

Related Readings: Psalm 19:1; Isaiah 60:19; John 11:4; Romans 4:20

Transformational Living

What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading? How will I respond?

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