Biblical Purpose

Leadership: Larry Thomas
Sunday, January 1, 2006

I spend a lot of time researching and analyzing the state of our churches and society to attempt and anticipate what is coming and inform church leaders of how those changes will affect our lives. Change, of course, is the defining attribute of our culture. Understanding the nature and direction of change can help people to maximize their abilities, enjoy life, and accomplish personal goals.

For people to get the most out of life, they need to pursue a purposeful direction that provides meaning and significance to their existence. Our lives are comprised of a half dozen or so important roles and dimensions that we intentionally and regularly nurture. Among the most common priorities are family, career, community involvement, leisure, health, and spiritual and intellectual development. We gain a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment from growing in these areas.

So, how do we know what constitutes an appropriate direction to pursue? Sometimes we determine our direction by watching what others do and by mimicking their behavior and choices. Other times we gather information, interpret the facts and create paths of action that we hope will result in desired outcomes. Often, we do whatever comes most naturally, most easily, or that which we have always done, hoping that these choices will provide the satisfaction we seek.

Most of us, however, take cues from our leaders - that is, from individuals who describe a preferable future in which we can participate and add value. That future possibility, known as vision, gives us a sense of a direction to pursue. But does vision help us find purpose, hope, and fulfillment as individuals? Well, possibly on a group level. However, individually, our God given purpose in life is spelled out in the Bible and describes us uniquely.

Living a focused life with kingdom influence begins with a sure foundation. A study of key scriptures helps reveal our reason for existence as individuals. The biblical foundation of your life is like a true north, the point of reference by which all things are measured.

Your biblical purpose declares the reason you exist. It is a being statement. It is more about who you are than what you do. Your biblical purpose reflects the heart of God. It is a kingdom perspective. Your biblical purpose clarifies what is non-negotiable in life, your true north, if you will.

Until next month, remember that a person's most lasting memory of you is how you made them feel. God bless you as you lead and serve.

To receive a free self-study lesson to help you discover your biblical foundation or help others to discover their biblical foundations, contact me at Lthomas@hoksba.org or 316-204-5632.