What Is My Purpose? Series

Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10 – 10“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Introduction

Today, we tackle one of life’s most persistent big questions: What is my purpose?

It’s a question that echoes in the hearts of teenagers, mid-lifers, and retirees alike.

And let’s be honest-sometimes, even pastors wonder if they’re living out their true purpose… especially on Monday mornings!

There's a funny story about a man who spent his whole life climbing the ladder of success, only to discover it was leaning against the wrong wall.

Maybe you’ve felt that way too.

1. The Search for Purpose

Many people drift through life like boats without rudders.

And honestly, without a sense of eternity, life can become a series of distractions –

• one thrill,

• one achievement,

• one “bucket list” item after another.

But after each new experience, we’re left asking, “Now what?”

Lighter Moment:

It’s like eating at an all-you-can-eat buffet.

You pile your plate high, you go back for seconds, maybe even thirds.

But eventually….., you realize you’re full - and maybe a little bit sick!

Chasing after the next big thing in life can leave us feeling the same way: full of something, but not fulfilled.

2. God’s Purpose for You

Ephesians 2:10 reminds us:

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

This verse is filled with truth about who we are and why we’re here.

Let’s unpack three foundational purposes God has for every one of us:

A. To Know God and Be Known by Him (God’s handiwork)

Before God asks us to do anything,

He invites us to be with Him.

God’s greatest desire is relationship with us.

Not just religious activity, but a real, living friendship.

He created you and me

to know Him,

to walk with Him,

to experience His love and grace every single day.

Illustration:

Think about a loving parent and their little child.

The parent doesn’t love the child for what they do, but for who they are.

In the same way, God delights in you simply because you are His.

Knowing that, knowing that our Heavenly Father delights in us, what is our reaction?

To fulfil your purpose:-

• Spend time with God daily. Not out of obligation, but to enjoy His presence.

• Talk to Him honestly in prayer. Share your joys and struggles.

• Read His Word not just for information, but to hear His heart for you.

Quote:

“God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.” – John Piper

So our purpose is to enjoy and develop our relationship with our Father.

Another vital purpose built into us is to:

B. To Love Others (v10 to do good works – prepared in advance)

Jesus summed up the entire law in two commands:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart… and love your neighbour as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-39)

Your purpose is never just about you.

God designed us for community.

He calls us to love, encourage, and serve those around us.

Illustration:

Imagine a symphony.

Each instrument in the orchestra is beautiful on its own, but together, they create a wall of music that moves hearts.

In the same way, God’s people, loving each other, create a harmony that draws the world to Him.

We are designed to function together, using the gifts, experiences and characteristics of individuals to create a symphony.

So to fulfil your purpose:

• Look for ways to encourage someone today - a word, a note, a helping hand.

• Forgive those who’ve hurt you; don’t let bitterness steal your purpose.

• Invest in relationships.

Join a group, reach out to a neighbour, or volunteer.

And yes, I know some of us don’t want to spent time with others.

Looking forward to heaven, Someone once said,

“To dwell above with saints we love, oh that will be glory!

But to dwell below with saints we know, well, that’s another story!”

Loving others isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.

So – our purpose:

1. Relationship with our Heavenly Parent,

2. to create and enjoy community

And . . .

C. Make a Difference

It’s obvious throughout Scripture that God has “good works” prepared in advance for each of us (Ephesians 2:10).

These aren’t random tasks —

they are divinely planned opportunities where your life, your gifts, and your faith intersect with the needs of the world.

When looking for your purpose, understand that God has entrusted you with unique assignments.

Your gifts, your story, your experiences — they’re not accidents.

They’re tools in the hands of a loving God who wants to use them to bless others and point people to Him.