Today I contemplate my purpose. What defines me?
In our culture, after we learn a new person’s name, the next question is almost always related to what they do.
Other times we’re defined, not by what we do, but by what happens to us. Rape victim. Cancer survivor.
I am a daughter. A wife. A teacher. An author. For twenty years, I worked as an executive.
But someday my parents will be gone. I may lose my husband. There will come a time when I will no longer stand before groups as a teacher. I may or may not publish another book. And my corporate career ended years ago.
So who am I? What defines me? Do I have a purpose that transcends these temporary roles?
These words recently described a dear friend at her memorial service:
“Cancer did not define her. God defined her.”
And there’s my answer. I can define myself with fleeting descriptions that are here today and gone tomorrow. Roles that will change depending on other people and varying circumstances. Abilities that will fade as my body fades.
Definition
Or I can define myself by eternal measures, as God defines me. Descriptors that will last long after everything else disappears.
- Chosen
- Loved
- Adopted
- Redeemed
- Forgiven
- Sealed
Purpose
And what about my purpose? That, too, must have eternal value. Anything other than eternal is pointless because it will not last. So my purpose is to:
- live in a way that brings praise and glory to God.
- know Him better.
- know the hope to which He has called me.
- and share that hope with others.
Am I always successful in fulfilling my purpose? How I wish that were true! But my lack of success motivates me to persevere.
By the way, if you’re wondering where I found my definitions and purpose, check out the first chapter of the book of Ephesians in the Bible!
Your turn!
Who are you? What is your purpose?
By God’s grace we share the definition of who we are and of what our purpose is! Thanks, Ava, for another great reminder of what it means to be a child of God and follower of Jesus Christ.
Thank you, Jane. I learned from the best!
After my son left for college I began to wonder what my purpose was now. I went through an identity crisis because I was moving into a new mom role with him. After much prayer and searching His word I found peace in knowing my purpose is to just praise him and glorify him in all situations. What peace that knowledge brought. Thank you Ava for these words!
Thank you, Kimberly, for sharing a great personal application!
Eva wonderful question! I feel my purpose is to first go to The Lord, with this question and do as he directs me. So far he is training me up to help others, as I have been helped, to come to know him as my Lord and Savior, and to have peace knowing he is always with me, no matter what!♡♡♡ I am Loved, Forgiven and Wonderfully made!
Love your answer, Kathy! “First go to the Lord.” Yes!