It's Not About You

Harsh Truths for a "Purpose-Driven" Society

I still don't know what I want to do with my life, which is a little frustrating because I've spent what feels like a lifetime trying to figure it out. But after wasting fortunes on vocal classes, piano lessons, technology, and degrees, I've finally grown tired of trying to "discover" my purpose.

So, I stopped.

I realized that we serve a Creator who crafted us in his perfect image, so there's no need to agonize about our future or how we'll leave our mark. Our mission is crystal clear. We are to love God with all our hearts and care for his people. True success, as the gospel encourages, lies in surrendering to God's purposes, not in the relentless pursuit of our own.

Throughout the Bible, the LORD provides us with cautionary tales to help us bypass the perils of selfish ambition. For instance, when the people in Babel sought to build a tower to reach the heavens and make a name for themselves, God confused their language to halt their progress.

When King Saul defied God's command by keeping the spoils of war and erecting a monument for himself, the LORD withdrew his anointing.

God even denied his great prophet Moses entry into the promised land because he lost his patience and became haughty.

The Scriptures teach us that unless the LORD is the architect of our endeavors, our efforts are in vain (Psalm 127). This doesn't mean we should refrain from action, but rather, we should embark on our life's journey with a humble recognition of our dependence on God's guidance, living for his glory and not our own.

In a celebrity-obsessed social media culture where digital popularity has grown to equate to power, we must avoid mixing influence with impact. When we use our gifts for selfish gain, we miss the opportunity to cultivate a deeper relationship with our God and others. As a result, we compromise our eternal victory by prioritizing temporary wins.

Instead of fixating on how to get ahead or gain respect, we can accept the LORD's invitation to rest, trusting that he hasn't forgotten about us. Above our desires, God is more interested in the care of our souls and the quality of our lives. When we allow him to inform our thinking and transform our behavior, we start walking by faith and moving with real purpose.

So, although I'm still unsure how God plans to use me, I remain obedient to his will and timing. In the meantime, I'll be here, reading my Bible, journaling my thoughts, minding my business, and trying not to overthink the quiet seasons.

Pray for me.