The True Costs of a Life with Purpose

Several years ago, during an overseas speaking engagement, I found myself walking through a centuries-old cemetery in Great Britain with my wife and daughter. As we read the inscriptions on headstones dating back to before my homeland, the United States of America, was discovered, we speculated about the lives of those buried there. What did they do with their time on earth? Did they discover their purpose? My daughter aptly replied, “I sure hope so because it would be sad to live your life and never know what you were made to do.”

Indeed, it's not just sad—it's tragic to live a life without understanding your purpose. After two decades of public speaking, I've been asked more than any other question: How do I discover my life purpose? Everyone knows the day they were born, but many don’t know why they were born.

My own journey toward discovering my purpose began after a failed suicide attempt at 21, when I was introduced to what it meant to have a relationship with Christ. This understanding gave my life satisfaction, meaning, drive, and fulfillment. Knowing my purpose has done the same for countless others. Yet, the path to discovering and living out God’s destiny requires several key steps: surrender, permission, and pursuit.

Surrender

Psalm 37:5 tells us to "Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart." Each of us has unique passions, inclinations, and gifts that God has placed within us to guide our path. However, these often remain hidden until we fully surrender to Him. Surrender means giving up our own plans and embracing God's will for our lives. It means allowing God to shape our desires so that they align with His.

I always thought I would follow in my father's footsteps and become a businessman. Preaching the Gospel was never part of my plan. But when I gave my life to Christ, my desires changed, and I was given a new assignment. What might God be calling you to?

Permission

Proverbs 16:3 advises, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans." Handing over control of your life is a major hurdle for many people in understanding their true purpose. It requires trust, submission, and sometimes a difficult reordering of priorities. This commitment to God paves the way for Him to establish our plans and bring fulfillment.

I have met many who spent years earning a degree only to find they lack passion for that field. The fear of leaving behind educational and career investments can be paralyzing. Yet, it's far better to be in the center of God's will than stuck in the rut of a comfort zone. Years ago, I left the ministry temporarily to work for a Fortune 500 company, but I was miserable. Returning to ministry meant giving up stability and perks, but God provided for me and my family. He always does for those who allow Him to rearrange their lives.

Pursuit

Finding your purpose is not about seeking an emotional experience or expecting a divine revelation with choirs of angels. God’s will is progressively revealed as we obey what He has already shown us. Matthew 6:33 promises, "Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." This guarantee requires dedication and pursuit of Jesus to uncover our purpose.

God speaks in various ways: through wise counsel, a sermon, a song, or even unexpected encounters. The most reliable guide is His Word in Scripture, described as a lamp to light our path. By studying the Bible, we sharpen our ability to discern God's direction. As we pursue God, He opens doors of opportunity and closes those that lead us astray.

Great things for God begin with time spent alone with Him. God desires our hearts before He will use our hands. Technology has conditioned us to expect immediate answers, but God does not operate on our timetable. He is more interested in what’s happening within us than in what’s happening through us. God may need to grow or prune areas in our lives before we can fulfill our purpose.

Embrace Your God-Given Purpose

God knew you before you were conceived and designed you for feats no one else can accomplish. He wants you to discover your purpose even more than you do. However, the plan will only be revealed when you are willing to pursue it.

Take the time to surrender your plans, give God permission to rearrange your life, and pursue Him relentlessly. In doing so, you will find the true purpose that brings fulfillment and joy. Share this message with those seeking their purpose, and consider subscribing to our newsletter for more insights on living a purpose-driven life.