Living in Increase (Part 12) - Increase in Focusનમૂનો

Week 1: Priorities

What are We Here For?

This month, we are talking about increasing our focus. One area we can focus on is our purpose. Purpose is defined in Webster’s dictionary as “the reason something is created” or “for which the reason something exists.” In Scripture, the common use of the word purpose was prosthesis, which means to “set before.”

Many of us find ourselves seeking an ultimate purpose in life. There is typically a season when we encounter a life experience, causing us to stop and reflect on God’s purpose for our lives. If you search the internet for “What is my purpose,” you will be prompted to ask questions like, “What do I want to do? What brings me joy? What pain have I experienced that I can turn to good? What are my goals?” Often, we get caught seeking a self-fulfilled singular purpose riddled with activities we enjoy and focus on what makes us happy. The world puts much emphasis on finding happiness when searching for purpose. However, when we ask ourselves, “What is my purpose?” the real question we are pondering is, “What was I created for?”

Would you believe me if I told you that your purpose is not about you? If we ask, “What was I created for?” the answer can only come from the creator Himself. In the book The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren says:

“The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It’s far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God.“

In studying Scripture, you will find that God created us to be multi-purposed. While the world makes finding purpose a journey of self-reflection focused on an individual’s interests and ultimate achievement, God makes purpose about relationships. The world promotes self-fulfilled happiness while God brings purpose in relationships full circle from the moment of our creation and into eternity.

This week, we will focus on the relational purposes derived from the love in which God has created us. By the end of the week, you will leave with a newfound perspective on purpose!

Lindsey Whitney

Action Step: Take time in prayer to shift your focus away from yourself in seeking your purpose and ask God who He created you to be.