The Christian Life Purpose
The purpose of life according to Christian Theology
4FORTITUDEI - INTUITION, SPIRITUALITY, PHILOSOPHY, RELIGIONO - OBJECTIVES, PURPOSE, PROSPERITY, LEGACY
The Christian Life Purpose: A Journey of Faith, Service, and Eternal Hope
What is the purpose of life? This age-old question has challenged human minds for centuries, yet for Christians, the answer is both profound and practical. The Christian faith offers a clear framework for understanding our existence, centering on God’s glory, our relationship with Him, and our responsibilities toward others. This article explores the core purposes that define the Christian life—to glorify God, to nurture a relationship with Him, to love and serve others, to fulfill the Great Commission, and to prepare for eternity. Each of these purposes is grounded in Scripture and provides both guidance and inspiration for daily living. In a world often marked by confusion and shifting values, these timeless truths serve as a beacon of clarity and purpose.
Through the following sections, we will delve into practical ways Christians can embody these purposes in their daily lives, offering reflections and actions that can be taken each day. By understanding these foundational truths, believers are better equipped to live meaningful, purposeful lives that reflect God’s love and grace. As you journey through these insights, may you find encouragement to deepen your faith, serve others with compassion, and remain ever mindful of the eternal hope that sustains us.
To Glorify God
Scriptural Basis: Isaiah 43:7, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Romans 11:36
Explanation: Christians believe that humanity was created to reflect God's glory through their actions, words, and lives. This means living in a way that honors God, expressing gratitude for His creation, and recognizing His sovereignty. Every decision, whether small or significant, can be an act of worship when aligned with God’s will.
Practical Application:
Begin each day with a prayer of gratitude, acknowledging God’s role in your life.
Strive for excellence in work, relationships, and service, knowing that all can be done for His glory.
Engage in acts of worship beyond Sunday services—through music, study, and daily devotion.
To Have a Relationship with God
Scriptural Basis: Genesis 1:27, John 17:3, Revelation 21:3
Explanation: Christianity emphasizes the unique relationship humans can have with God, facilitated through Jesus Christ. This involves knowing God personally, embracing His love, and engaging in prayer and devotion. The fall of man (Genesis 3) disrupted this relationship, but Christ’s sacrifice restored the possibility of communion with God, which is central to Christian faith.
Practical Application:
Set aside time each day for personal prayer and Scripture reading.
Seek deeper understanding through theological study, reflection, and community discussion.
Cultivate a spirit of surrender, trusting God’s plan even in uncertainty.
To Love and Serve Others
Scriptural Basis: Mark 12:30-31, Matthew 25:35-40, Galatians 5:13
Explanation: Jesus taught that loving others is second only to loving God. Serving others, especially the needy, is a reflection of God's love and a way to live out the Christian faith. Acts of kindness, hospitality, and charity are fundamental ways believers can embody Christ’s love in their communities.
Practical Application:
Volunteer regularly in charitable organizations or church ministries.
Practice daily acts of kindness—encouraging words, small gestures of help, and intentional listening.
Develop a servant’s heart by prioritizing others’ needs and seeking ways to bless them.
To Fulfill the Great Commission
Scriptural Basis: Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 1:8, 2 Corinthians 5:20
Explanation: Jesus commissioned His followers to spread the Gospel, teaching all nations about Him and making disciples. This purpose emphasizes the role of Christians in sharing their faith and expanding God's kingdom. Evangelism and discipleship are not limited to missionaries but are responsibilities of all believers.
Practical Application:
Share personal testimonies with friends, family, and colleagues in a natural and sincere manner.
Support missions through prayer, financial contributions, or active participation.
Mentor new believers, guiding them in their spiritual growth and discipleship.
To Prepare for Eternity
Scriptural Basis: Philippians 3:20, John 14:2-3, 2 Corinthians 5:1-2
Explanation: Christians believe life on Earth is a temporary phase that prepares them for eternal life with God. This involves living righteously, cultivating a Christ-like character, and looking forward to the promise of heaven. Maintaining an eternal perspective helps Christians navigate trials with faith and perseverance.
Practical Application:
Regularly meditate on Scripture that speaks of heaven and the promises of eternal life.
Live with integrity and moral conviction, knowing that earthly struggles are temporary.
Encourage others in faith, offering hope and support to those facing difficulties.
Let’s Begin:
Day 1: Glorifying God through Creation
Scripture: Isaiah 43:7 - "Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him."
Explanation: God’s purpose in creating us is for His glory. Our lives should be a reflection of His nature, embodying His love, grace, and truth.
Key Insight: God created you to reflect His glory in all you do.
Contemplation: Today, reflect on one area of your life where you can better reflect God's glory.
Day 2: Living for His Glory in Every Action
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
Explanation: Even in the mundane aspects of life, our actions can be a form of worship when we dedicate them to God’s glory.
Key Insight: Every moment is an opportunity to glorify God.
Contemplation: Consider how your daily routines can become acts of worship when done with a grateful heart.
Day 3: Praising God for His Creation
Scripture: Psalm 19:1 - "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork."
Explanation: Nature reflects the majesty of its Creator. Recognizing the beauty around us is a way to appreciate and glorify God.
Key Insight: The world around you speaks of God's glory.
Contemplation: Spend a few minutes outside today, observing God’s creation, and consider what it says about His nature.
Day 4: Glorifying God in Our Bodies
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:20 - "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's."
Explanation: As Christians, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. How we treat and care for them can be an act of reverence to God.
Key Insight: Your body is a vessel for God’s presence.
Contemplation: Reflect on how you can honor God with your body today—whether through rest, exercise, or healthy choices.
Day 5: Worship as a Form of Glory
Scripture: Psalm 29:2 - "Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness."
Explanation: Worship is a direct expression of glorifying God. It is an intentional acknowledgment of His majesty and a humbling of ourselves before Him.
Key Insight: Worship brings our hearts closer to God’s glory.
Contemplation: Take a moment to worship today, whether through prayer, song, or silent reflection.
Day 6: Reflecting God’s Character
Scripture: Matthew 5:16 - "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Explanation: By living righteously, our actions become a testament to God’s goodness, leading others to see His nature through us.
Key Insight: Your actions can lead others to recognize God’s glory.
Contemplation: Consider one good deed you can do today to reflect God’s love to those around you.
Day 7: God’s Desire for Relationship
Scripture: Genesis 1:27 - "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them."
Explanation: Being made in God’s image means we have the unique capacity to connect with Him, unlike any other part of creation.
Key Insight: God made you with the capacity for a deep relationship with Him.
Contemplation: Reflect on what being made in God’s image means for your relationship with Him.
Day 8: The Gift of Eternal Life
Scripture: John 17:3 - "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."
Explanation: Eternal life is more than a future promise; it’s a present relationship with God through Christ, characterized by knowing and being known by Him.
Key Insight: Eternal life is found in knowing God deeply.
Contemplation: Spend time in prayer today, focusing on knowing God’s heart more intimately.
Day 9: God’s Love and Our Response
Scripture: 1 John 4:19 - "We love him, because he first loved us."
Explanation: God’s love for us initiates and sustains our relationship with Him. Our love for Him is a response to His overwhelming grace.
Key Insight: Your relationship with God begins with His love.
Contemplation: Contemplate how God has shown His love in your life and how you can respond with love today.
Day 10: Prayer as Connection
Scripture: Philippians 4:6 - "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
Explanation: Prayer is the direct communication line between us and God, allowing us to pour out our hearts and seek His guidance in every situation.
Key Insight: Prayer connects your heart to God’s presence.
Contemplation: Take 5 minutes today to pray about what’s on your heart, bringing both your burdens and gratitude before God.
Day 11: Drawing Near to God
Scripture: James 4:8 - "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded."
Explanation: God desires closeness with us, and when we seek Him earnestly, He responds. This involves repentance and a sincere desire for holiness.
Key Insight: God is ready to draw closer when you seek Him.
Contemplation: Reflect on any barriers in your life that prevent you from drawing nearer to God.
Day 12: Seeking God with All Your Heart
Scripture: Jeremiah 29:13 - "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart."
Explanation: God promises that those who earnestly seek Him will find Him. This pursuit requires genuine desire and wholehearted devotion.
Key Insight: A wholehearted search for God will always be rewarded.
Contemplation: Consider how you can seek God with greater intention today, whether through study, prayer, or worship.
Day 13: Loving Others as Yourself
Scripture: Mark 12:31 - "And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these."
Explanation: Jesus teaches that loving others is central to a faithful life. This love should be active and compassionate, reflecting the care we show ourselves.
Key Insight: True love for others mirrors the care we have for ourselves.
Contemplation: Think of one person you can show love to today through an act of kindness.
Day 14: Serving the Least of These
Scripture: Matthew 25:40 - "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."
Explanation: Jesus identifies with those in need, making our service to others a direct service to Him. Serving the poor, hungry, and marginalized is central to Christian love.
Key Insight: When you serve others, you are serving Christ Himself.
Contemplation: Consider a way you can serve someone in need today, even if it’s just with your time or a kind word.
Day 15: Bearing One Another’s Burdens
Scripture: Galatians 6:2 - "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."
Explanation: Christians are called to support each other in times of struggle, reflecting Christ’s compassion. This is how the community of believers grows stronger together.
Key Insight: Helping others in their struggles fulfills Christ’s command of love.
Contemplation: Reflect on how you can help ease someone’s burden today—whether through listening, prayer, or offering practical help.
Day 16: Loving Your Enemies
Scripture: Matthew 5:44 - "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you."
Explanation: Loving those who treat us poorly is one of the hardest calls of the Christian life. It reflects the unconditional love that God has shown us through Christ.
Key Insight: Radical love has the power to transform even the hardest hearts.
Contemplation: Pray for someone who has wronged you and consider how you might show kindness to them.
Day 17: Serving with Humility
Scripture: Philippians 2:3 - "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."
Explanation: Humility in service is about valuing others above ourselves and seeking their best interests without selfish motives. It is a reflection of Christ’s own humility.
Key Insight: True service is born from humility and selflessness.
Contemplation: Consider how you can adopt a humble attitude in your interactions today.
Day 18: Love in Action
Scripture: 1 John 3:18 - "My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth."
Explanation: Words of love are important, but they must be backed up by tangible actions. This means putting love into practice through genuine care and support for others.
Key Insight: Love is most powerful when it moves from words to actions.
Contemplation: Think of one practical way you can show love in action today.
Day 19: Sharing the Good News
Scripture: Matthew 28:19 - "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost."
Explanation: Jesus’ command to His disciples extends to all believers. Sharing the Gospel is a central part of following Christ and expanding His kingdom.
Key Insight: Every believer has a role in spreading the message of Jesus.
Contemplation: Pray for one opportunity to share your faith with someone today.
Day 20: Being a Light to the World
Scripture: Matthew 5:14 - "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid."
Explanation: Christians are called to be visible examples of God’s truth and love in a world that often rejects Him. Our lives should reflect the hope found in Christ.
Key Insight: Your life is a testimony that others can see and be drawn to.
Contemplation: Consider one way you can be a light in your community today.
Day 21: Ambassadors for Christ
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:20 - "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God."
Explanation: Being an ambassador means representing Christ’s message to the world. This involves living in a way that points others toward reconciliation with God.
Key Insight: Your words and actions represent Christ to those around you.
Contemplation: Think about how your behavior today can represent Christ well to others.
Day 22: Defending the Faith
Scripture: 1 Peter 3:15 - "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear."
Explanation: Christians should be prepared to explain their faith with gentleness and respect, offering reasons for the hope that sustains them.
Key Insight: Sharing your faith is not just about words; it’s about sharing hope.
Contemplation: Reflect on your story of faith and how you might share it with someone who is curious.
Day 23: Making Disciples
Scripture: Matthew 28:20 - "Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."
Explanation: The Great Commission involves not just sharing the Gospel but helping others grow in their faith and obedience to Christ’s teachings.
Key Insight: Discipleship is about walking alongside others as they grow in faith.
Contemplation: Think of one person you can encourage or mentor in their faith journey.
Day 24: Trusting in God’s Power
Scripture: Acts 1:8 - "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
Explanation: Sharing the Gospel is not done in our own strength but through the power of the Holy Spirit. God equips His followers to fulfill His mission.
Key Insight: God’s power strengthens you to be a witness.
Contemplation: Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength in your interactions today.
Day 25: Our Heavenly Home
Scripture: Philippians 3:20 - "For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ."
Explanation: Believers are citizens of heaven, living in this world but with an eternal perspective, awaiting Christ’s return.
Key Insight: Your true home is with Christ in eternity.
Contemplation: Reflect on how your choices today prepare you for your eternal home.
Day 26: The Promise of Eternity
Scripture: John 14:2 - "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you."
Explanation: Jesus’ promise to prepare a place for us provides hope and assurance of a future with Him, free from the troubles of this world.
Key Insight: Jesus is preparing a place for you in His eternal kingdom.
Contemplation: Consider how this promise of a heavenly home influences your daily life and decisions.
Day 27: Storing Treasures in Heaven
Scripture: Matthew 6:20 - "But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal."
Explanation: True wealth lies in the eternal, not in earthly possessions. Living with eternity in mind means investing in things that have lasting value.
Key Insight: Focus on what has eternal value rather than earthly gain.
Contemplation: Think about what treasures you are storing up in heaven through your actions.
Day 28: Living as a Pilgrim
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:11 - "Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul."
Explanation: Christians are seen as pilgrims on a journey, living in a world that is not their final destination. This perspective helps resist worldly temptations.
Key Insight: You are a pilgrim in this world, journeying toward your true home.
Contemplation: Consider what worldly attachments you need to let go of to focus on your eternal journey.
Day 29: Preparing for Christ’s Return
Scripture: 2 Peter 3:12 - "Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?"
Explanation: Christians are called to live in anticipation of Christ’s return, maintaining readiness and eagerness for that day.
Key Insight: Live each day as if Christ might return tomorrow.
Contemplation: Reflect on what changes you might make if you knew Christ’s return was imminent.
Day 30: Eternal Perspective on Suffering
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:17 - "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory."
Explanation: Suffering in this life is temporary compared to the eternal glory that awaits. It shapes and refines us, preparing us for a greater reward.
Key Insight: Earthly suffering is temporary, but eternal glory is forever.
Contemplation: Think about how your current trials might be preparing you for a future glory with God.
Thoughts
Living a purposeful Christian life is about more than following a set of rules; it is about embodying God’s love, truth, and grace in all that we do. As we seek to glorify God, build a relationship with Him, serve others, share the Good News, and prepare for eternity, we are called to live with intention and humility. Each step of this journey requires faith, perseverance, and a heart aligned with God’s will.
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it is easy to lose sight of our divine purpose. Yet, through daily reflection and intentional living, we can reconnect with the core principles of our faith. Let the Scriptures guide you, the Spirit empower you, and the love of Christ compel you to live a life that points others toward God. Ultimately, the greatest legacy we leave behind is not in worldly achievements but in the lives we touch and the faith we demonstrate. As you reflect on these truths, may you find renewed strength and inspiration to walk boldly in your Christian purpose, knowing that each moment of faithfulness brings you closer to the eternal reward promised by God.
Conclusion
The Christian life is deeply purposeful, anchored in a divine mission that transcends mere existence. By glorifying God, nurturing a relationship with Him, loving and serving others, fulfilling the Great Commission, and preparing for eternity, believers find true meaning and fulfillment. These purposes not only provide direction but also cultivate a life rich in faith, hope, and love.
As you reflect on these principles, consider these questions:
How can you better align your daily actions with God’s glory?
In what ways can you deepen your relationship with God and serve others more effectively?
Are you actively sharing your faith and living in preparation for eternity?
May this journey of faith lead you to a life of greater purpose, joy, and devotion to God.