Choosing The Extraordinary LifeSample

Discover Your Unique Purpose

Every follower of Christ has a general purpose in life—to bring God glory and to enjoy Him forever. But each of us also has a unique purpose that answers the question, “Why has God placed me in this world?” 

You are real, living in a real world, sent out by our real God to accomplish a real and unique purpose. Once you fully grasp this truth, it will help bring clarity to your life’s priorities, uncertainties, and difficulties. 

Since God made only one version of you, it is important to understand how to discover the unique purpose for which God created and gifted you. This is the story God wants to tell through you, so let’s use the acronym story to help.

Start with scripture. Scripture teaches us who God is and who we are—and how He has fashioned, equipped, and gifted us. The Bible provides lessons and instruction on life so we might develop the skills, knowledge, and insight necessary to identify and fulfill our purpose. Commit to reading regularly.

Talk to others. When it comes to discovering your unique purpose, it’s wise to talk with those who know you best. They can see things you cannot see—both your abilities and your inabilities.

Obey your passions. If you are in a growing and intimate relationship with God, He will mold your desires to conform to His plan for your life. Another word for desire is passion. To discover your unique purpose, ask yourself, What am I passionate about? What needs do I see in the world that must be met?

Recognize your abilities. God will also endow you with the gifts and abilities you need for that desire. Although you cannot be anything you want to be, God has given you all the gifts you need to be everything He wants you to be.

Yield to the leading of the Spirit. Living out your purpose requires surrendering your life to the control of God’s Holy Spirit. We must learn how to listen when God’s Spirit speaks to us and then learn to obey.

Lord, thank you for creating me with a specific purpose. I trust you will guide my discovery of it and reveal to me exactly what I need to know as I step into your calling for me.