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.
Illustration: Puzzle with a Missing Piece (pic of puzzle with missing piece)
Think of a puzzle.
Every piece matters, no matter how small.
If just one piece is missing, the picture is incomplete.
In God’s kingdom, you are that vital piece.
You have purpose!
There are people and places only you can reach — moments that will be missed unless you step into them.
So how do you live this out?
• Discover your gifts
o What are you good at?
o What brings you joy when you do it?
These are clues to how God wired you.
Ask others what they see in you.
Pay attention to what stirs your heart.
• Look for needs around you
You don’t have to cross the world to make a difference.
Often, the most powerful ministry begins when you simply notice the people right in front of you.
Is there
? someone lonely?
? Someone struggling?
? A need in your church or neighbourhood?
Your purpose is to look for needs that you can fill.
When does this start?
• Start now. Start small.
Don’t wait for the “perfect” opportunity.
It may never come.
Start where you are, with what you have.
Faithfulness in small things opens the door to greater things (Luke 16:10).
Encouragement and Challenge
You may not change the whole world — but you can change someone’s world.
Never underestimate the impact of a kind word,
o a thoughtful gesture,
o a helping hand, or
o a listening ear.
These are the seeds that God can grow into something eternal.
Let me challenge you too:
Don’t let fear, busyness, or comparison rob you of the chance to make a difference.
The enemy would love for you to feel
too small,
too ordinary, or
too late.
But God says, “You are my workmanship, created for good works.”
So what’s stopping you?
Summary: Your Purpose is This
• To know God and enjoy His love
• To love others and build authentic community
• To step boldly into the good works prepared for you
When you live this way, you’ll be sure to find joy, direction, and fulfilment that no earthly success can match.
And your life will matter — not just for today, but for eternity.
Conclusion
You were made on purpose for a purpose.
So don’t settle for drifting through life.
Anchor yourself in Christ.
Love others deeply.
Walk into every day looking for how you can be used.
And if ever you feel lost or uncertain, remember this:
The One who made you knows exactly why you’re here — and He’s ready to lead you, one step at a time.
SONG: You made me for this (Youtube)
Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for creating us with love, intention, and purpose. Thank You that we are Your handiwork, designed for good works and meaningful lives.
Remind us today that our greatest purpose is to know You, to love others, and to make a difference right where we are.
Help us to seek You daily, to serve faithfully in the small things, and to stay open to Your leading-even when it takes us beyond our comfort zone.
Fill us with Your Spirit, so that everything we do points others to Your love.
May we leave here today confident that our lives matter, that we are part of Your story, and that You will use us for good.
In Jesus’ name we pray,
Amen.
