Finding Purpose
A family bible study by Keith M. Craddock
Have you ever felt like something is missing in your life? Like you're just going through the motions, but not really living with intention or direction? Finding purpose is a fundamental human quest. We all want to know why we're here and what we're supposed to be doing.
Living for God's Glory
In 1 Thessalonians 1:6-18, Paul writes:
"...you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit...And now you are an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia."
As believers, our purpose is to live for God's glory. We're called to imitate Christ and to spread the message of the Gospel to those around us.
Loving God and Loving Others
In Mark 12:30-31, Jesus says:
"'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."
Jesus teaches us that our purpose is to love God and to love others. When we prioritize these two commandments, we'll find that our lives are filled with purpose and meaning.
Submitting to God's Will
In James 4:7, we read:
"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
As we seek to find our purpose, we must submit ourselves to God's will. This means letting go of our own desires and ambitions, and instead seeking to follow God's plan for our lives.
Conclusion
Finding purpose is a journey, not a destination. It's a process of seeking God, submitting to His will, and living for His glory. When we prioritize loving God and loving others, we'll find that our lives are filled with purpose and meaning.
Reflection Questions
- What are you living for? Is it to bring glory to God, or is it for something else?
- How can you prioritize loving God and loving others in your daily life?
- What does it mean to you to submit to God's will, and how can you do that in a practical way?
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, help us to find our purpose in You. May we seek to live for Your glory, and may we prioritize loving You and loving others. Submit our hearts to Your will, and guide us on the path of righteousness. In Jesus' name, Amen
