Finding purpose

Understanding one's purpose is one of the most important aspect of anyone’s life. We know that we are not here to survive, and then die. There is more to life than that!

Since we strive for fulfillment, we make it our business to find out what on earth we are supposed to do here. Looking at how we are put together, we recognize some skills, gifts and talents that we have been blessed with. Some of these might be small, seem insignificant, be buried under bad experiences and opinions of others, but still, they exist. Nobody comes to earth with nothing to contribute to society; everyone has something that he world needs. Our gifting might be an indication of what we ought to do, yet it is up to ourselves to develop what we discovered, and put it into practice.

Finding a reason for being here should not be hard if the talents and skills that we were born with, is seen as the equipment given to us to help us live a fulfilled life. Making money is, of course, important, but if you don't enjoy what you do, life can be very stressful. Wealth is not a purpose in itself, but rather the fruit of a productive life. If the enjoyment of labor is absent, wealth without fulfillment might bring with it a host of burdens to bear. Looking inside of you, before looking around for an opportunity, can make things easier.

Having said all of the above, it remains a real struggle for too many people to recognize their purpose, consequently they spend most of their lives searching, trying different things but not necessarily accomplishing much. This is not a way to spend the only life that you have!

The first step into a satisfied life is to understand that you were born to make a contribution to society. As we serve, we increase the value of our talents and skills, while receiving investments into our own lives at the same time. It is the basic rhythm of giving and receiving - just like breathing: you have to inhale and exhale to live.

A good second step might be to find your spot in society. You have a specific function to fulfill as there is a need in the world for what you have been blessed with. Report for duty and work on the practical issues. Remember always that mediocre man never accomplishes anything. Work hard, especially at the beginning of your career when you have energy and zeal, and your dream is alive in your mind. Note that there will always be questions, obstacles and challenges to overcome.

Thirdly, increase the value of what you have by learning, experimenting and taking risks. Nurture the seed in you, and grow it to fruition. Learn from others, but don't copy them; the world is hungry for things original and unique.

Vision is a present picture of a future reality. Finding clarity about it is a good fourth step. You cannot attend to all the needs you see around you, and you cannot do everything that needs to be done. The old saying, “if you chase two rabbits, you catch neither,” is true. Your assignment might change as you grow, but you focus best on one thing at a time.

Work hard to be the best you that you can be, remembering that you are your own opposition. Fight against your unbelief, overcome your fears, rise above the opinions of others, discipline your flesh, and bring it into subjection to your spirit.

Lastly, surround yourself with people who pursue excellence. Nobody can fulfill their assignment alone; we all need help because nobody has everything that is required to successfully complete the work.

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10