Created For A Purpose

Created For a Purpose:

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)

We've all most likely read this verse over and over, quoted it time and time again, and written it down as lovely encouragements. However, have we allowed repetition to render our reckoning of this verse to be insincere?

What does it mean to have the God of the entire universe as your own personal schedule keeper? He calls the shots, makes the dates, and sets them into action. But not only that, He also makes them impeccably phenomenal. The plans He predestined are monumental and marvellous.

"Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare." (Psalms 40:5)

What a proclamation for God's creation! He has planned so much goodness, and we mustn't forget that what the Lord plans will indeed come to pass.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6)

"Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails." (Proverbs 19:21)

Our minds are wanderers, constantly searching and searching for a firm foundation on which to build trust. If we're deluded by the devil into the destructive deception he imposes upon us, then we are doomed to be destiny-distressed. That is to say, we'll believe it to be our own works and efforts that build the stairway to success. Thereby, ensuing heaps of worry and anxiety when pondering the prospect of our future. Because we feel inadequate, we relentlessly stress over the future.

The reality is, we are inadequate - on our own, that is. We can't get by on the prosperity of our own works. We are not strong enough to carry the burdens of this life on our own shoulders, for we'll surely crumble under such pressure.

"But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”" (Matthew 19:26)

You see, it's not about the "how" in regards to our destiny being great. We know in our hearts that through God's almighty and powerful strength, He will surely make a way.

"Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you." (Jeremiah 32:17)

We needn't fret over the pressure to plan and orchestrate our own destinies. We cannot build on our insufficient glory, but we must fully depend on and delight in the glory of God the Father. Nothing is too hard for Him. He is more than able to supply everything we need.

"And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19)

Now we have covered the "how" as well as the "who" when it comes to our destiny, and now we question the "what." What is our purpose? We are created for a purpose aren't we? Of course! But... What is that purpose?

First, our eternal destiny. Our eternal destiny is unending, unburdened life. Everlasting life is life that is even more intimately fellowshipped with God, for everlasting life is when we'll meet Him face to Face.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." (John 3:16)

Our eternal destiny is to behold Him in all of His wondrous glory. We will worship and be made whole in spirit. Our souls will no longer feel continually hungry. We will be right there with the Lord, the fulfilment of our utmost desire.

Next, our earthen intent. Jesus our Saviour intends for us to live in joy and abundance. He is our Good Shepherd, and He desires only the best for His sheep.

"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep." (John 10:10-11)

Jesus Christ gave His life so that we may have ours. Not just life that drudges through and survives, but life that shines His Light and Love - life that thrives and glows! This is how we ought to live NOW, right here where we are.

Lastly, our mission. Our mission here on earth is to bring others into this wonderful way of life. We live with our eyes set on the prize of eternity, and that hope anchors our souls. Our Lord is our stronghold and our refuge in times of need and in times of thanks, in times of grief and in times of praise.

He is our Companion throughout every season of life, and that's just too good not to share. Our mission is this: we are ambassadors of His precious promises.

"Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God." (2 Corinthians 5:20)

So don't go on another minute wondering if you have a purpose! Living with intention is a choice! We must choose to embrace all that God's Word professes, and we must declare it over ourselves and over our lives without hesitation.

Live with eternity on your mind. Let abounding grace be draped over you as royal garments. Hold abundance in hands of gratitude, and vividly live so others see the goodness of God shining brightly in your soul. We're all purposed, but ambitious purpose is a conscious choice.

-The Introverted Evangelist

Photograph Taken By: Jon Courville