The purposes that God intends to be a driving force in our lives are all mentioned in Ephesians.
1. Our purpose in life drives our activities
“Without God, life has no purpose, and without purpose, life has no meaning. Without meaning, life has no significance…” The greatest tragedy is not death, but living without purpose. Paul writes, “I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me” (Philippians 3:12). Paul’s life was transformed because the grace of Jesus had taken hold of him. This is why Paul can emphatically state, “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings” (Philippians 3:10). Hope comes from having a purpose, and knowing our purpose gives meaning to our lives. For Paul, knowing Jesus was his purpose.
2. Our purpose in life simplifies our lives
Without a clear purpose, a person has no foundation on which to base decisions, allocate time and use resources. As a result, life becomes cluttered with choices made based on circumstances, pressures and emotions. Not knowing our purpose can lead to overwork, stress, fatigue and ultimately frustration.
On the other hand, knowing our purpose simplifies our lives because it defines what we do and what we don’t do. Our purpose becomes the standard we use to evaluate which activities are essential and which aren’t. Paul writes, “But one thing I do” (Philippians 3:13). One thing. Jesus tells the rich young man, “One thing you lack” (Mark 10:21), and to the overworked and hyper-critical Martha, He says, “Only one thing is needed” (Luke 10:42).
Often, we find ourselves involved in too many things. But only one thing matters: God’s purpose for us today—in this moment. The secret to progress is to concentrate on that “one thing”—to be purposeful, intentional and focused. Paul is single-minded about his ambition: “One thing I do.” Purpose-driven living leads to a simpler lifestyle and a saner schedule.
3. Our purpose focuses our life
“I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold
of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.” (Philippians 3:13)
With the same determination, Paul pursued his ambition to know Christ. He emphasizes, “Don’t look back.” One of the fundamental rules of running is not to look behind us; as runners, we must focus solely on the finish line. We cannot concentrate on what lies ahead while also turning our heads back. Paul continues, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). When we focus on Jesus and His love, everything falls into its proper perspective.
4. Our purpose motivates us to prepare for eternity.
“I press on toward the goal to win the prize.” (Philippians 3:14).
Purpose produces passion. Nothing energizes us more than having a clear purpose. Conversely, passion dissipates when we lack direction. An athlete is not distracted by ice cream or heckling bystanders; they succeed by getting on the track, practising hard and remaining determined to win.
There is no greater motivation than discovering the purpose for which we were created. Knowing our purpose gives meaning to our lives, simplifies our lives, focuses our lives and motivates us to act.
“Many people invest their entire lives in building a legacy on earth. They want to be remembered after they’re gone.” However, living to create an earthly legacy is a short-sighted goal. We weren’t placed on this earth merely to be remembered; we are here to prepare for eternity. “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14). Let us press on.