What is Purpose?
First of all, what is purpose? Purpose is the reason why we were created. Why we were born. I believe God has something special in mind for each one of us. He has given each of us reason for being here. We are not accidents or a random group of cells. We were designed by our Creator. We all have a purpose for living.
What is MY Purpose?
You might be thinking, “Yeah, okay…but how do I identify what MY purpose is?” Let’s think about that. What is it that you are good at? What comes naturally to you? What can you do that takes little effort? Whatever that may be is likely your God-given gift or talent.
I am not talking necessarily about something like singing or athletics, though it can very well be that. It could be that you have a nurturing spirit, that you are able to teach people, that you are good at building doll houses…whatever. I believe that what ever you are innately able to do that just comes naturally is your gift or talent. Therein lies your purpose.
Are you a good listener? Are you good at math? Do you have a keen eye for fashion? Write these down. Are you using these skills in your current profession? What ways might you be able to do so? I feel that we are most content in our jobs (or life’s work) when we are doing the things we were created to do.
Let’s say someone is a great listener and problem solver. What type of job might they have that would highlight those gifts? Mother, counselor, therapist, human resource manager? You get the idea. And if you think about it, everyone’s gifts or talents are used not just for them alone, but to ultimately to be of benefit to others. Think about all the “talented” people you know. If they never shared their talent with others what good would it really be?
Identifying Your Purpose
Some of you might be saying, “That all sounds great for you but I am not good at anything, I have no gifts or talents.” That is simply not true. Perhaps you have a disability or an impairment and you feel that hinders you or your gifts. Think again. God has given you, unique gifts specific to who you are.
There is an amazing man by the name of Nick Vujicic. He was born without any limbs. No arms. No legs. Most of us can’t even begin to imagine what that must be like. But by the grace of God and through the gifts of God, Nick has become known all over the world as an inspirational and motivational speaker. Though he did go through some very difficult times, he was able to realize that despite his limitations, God had a purpose and a plan for his life. He has been able to uplift others through his living example and share his faith testimony as well. He is married and has 4 beautiful children.
Then there are people like Steph Curry. A hugely successful basketball player. One of his talents is his athletic ability. By playing the way he does, he not only entertains millions of people, but because of his demeanor and level of respectability, he is also a role model for kids all over the world. And being man of faith, He recognizes that his gifts all come from God and he is quick to acknowledge that.
Bottom Line
No, you are not Nick Vujicic or Steph Curry. But you, You have a purpose. And God, God has a plan. Identify what your purpose is and lean into it. And God will direct your paths and guide you into His desired plan for your life.
For more on Nick Vujicic, you can find him on social media and read his books, Life without Limits and Love without Limits.