Day 10: Living with Purpose

"For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

– Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

Reflection

I remember the first time I read Rick Warren’s Purpose Driven Life. That book challenged me in ways I didn’t expect. It led me to one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make: breaking off a relationship I thought was the best thing in my life. At the time, I was relying on that relationship so much that it had become the center of my world, taking the place that belonged to God. It was clear that it was hindering my focus on Him and His plan for me.

One of the truths Rick Warren shares in the book is this: “You were made by God and for God, and until you understand this, life will never make sense.” That simple but profound statement opened my eyes to the fact that my life wasn’t about me—it was about God. It was about discovering why He created me and aligning my life with His purpose.

Isn’t that a question we’ve all wrestled with? Why am I here? What’s my purpose? Am I truly living the life God has called me to? These questions have kept me up at night, and I can imagine they’ve kept you up too. The world tells us that success and meaning come from achievements, possessions, or popularity, but even after chasing all these things, we would often feel empty.

Rick Warren describes this cycle perfectly: “Without a clear purpose, you will keep changing directions, jobs, relationships, churches, or other externals—hoping each change will settle the confusion or fill the emptiness in your heart. You think, maybe this time it will be different, but it doesn’t solve your real problem—a lack of focus and purpose.”

Purpose Begins with God

Here’s the truth: your purpose doesn’t start with you. It starts with God. Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are God’s handiwork—His masterpiece—created for good works that He prepared in advance for us to do. Think about that. Before you were even born, God designed you with intention and care. He gave you unique talents, strengths, and life experiences, all to equip you for the purpose He has for you.

I love the analogy Rick Warren uses in Purpose Driven Life: just like a product’s creator knows exactly what it was made for, only God, your Creator, knows the full extent of your purpose. Jeremiah 1:5 echoes this truth:

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born, I set you apart."

So, if you’re searching for the meaning of your life, start with God. Spend time with Him in prayer and His Word. It’s not about figuring it all out at once; it’s about aligning yourself with Him and letting Him reveal your purpose step by step.

Your Talents Are Tools, Not the Goal

It’s easy to think that our skills and passions are what define our purpose, but that’s not the case. Think about Moses and Gideon. Moses argued that he wasn’t eloquent enough to lead God’s people, and Gideon doubted he had the bravery to fulfill his calling. Yet God used them in extraordinary ways because their purpose wasn’t about their abilities—it was about their willingness to obey and trust Him.

Here’s an example: you can sleep in your car, but that doesn’t mean it was designed to be a bed. Similarly, you can stand on a chair to reach a high shelf, but that doesn’t make it a ladder. Just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean it defines your purpose. Your purpose is determined by what God wants to do with what you have.

When you step into God’s purpose for your life, He will equip you with the skills and resources you need. He will develop qualities in you that you never thought possible, as long as you’re willing to work with Him. Purpose is less about what you have and more about why God gave it to you.

Living with Eternal Perspective

Rick Warren reminds us that our purpose isn’t just about this life; it’s about eternity. Colossians 3:2 says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Living with purpose means seeing your life as part of God’s bigger story. It means understanding that the good works God prepared for you are not just for your fulfillment but to bring glory to Him and impact the lives of others.

Your purpose is bigger than you. When you align your life with God’s plan, you position yourself to bless others and fulfill your part in His kingdom. As Rick Warren says, “It’s not about you. The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment.”

Beloved, you are God’s handiwork—His masterpiece, uniquely designed to fulfill a purpose that only you can accomplish. Life isn’t about striving to figure it all out on your own; it’s about surrendering to God, trusting that He’s already prepared the path for you, and walking in alignment with His will. Remember, your purpose isn’t about what you can do but about what God wants to do through you. So, take a deep breath, lean into Him, and step boldly into the good works He’s prepared just for you.

• Think about the recurring theme around something(s) God has asked you to do in the past or recently

• Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal or reaffirm His purpose for your life.

• Pray that God will align your steps with His purpose for your life

• Ask Him to show you how you can position yourself to receive clearly what He wants you do to.

• If you've felt a nudging in your heart towards something, what one thing can you do this week to get it started?

Lord, I thank You for creating me with intention and purpose, and for bringing my attention to this purpose. Teach me to see myself as Your masterpiece, uniquely crafted for the good works You’ve prepared for me. Help me to seek You first, to trust in Your plans and to walk in alignment with Your will. Equip me with everything I need to walk in the path that You've set apart for me, and use my life to bring You glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Action Steps

Prayer