Born with a purpose
Some time ago I wrote a post titled, Who am I? Hopefully, most of us have already answered that question and are at least contemplating the next steps. I thought I would help you along the way by asking the next question, which is the second on my list from three years ago. Why am I here?
We are living in a very interesting time in earth’s history. One in which life appears to be moving at lightning speed with the help of technology. Coupled with this are the endless possibilities at one’s fingertip for living your life to the fullest. You are here because you are very special. You are here because you were born with a purpose. One that is so great that it will take a lifetime to accomplish. Let’s think about the circumstances of your being here, at this moment, in this world of chaos, strife, and uncertainties. Maybe you came about as the result of a one-night stand, or rape, or maybe your parents were deeply in love and the result is the resilient, beautiful, and awesome you!
The events of your life are important
It doesn’t matter how you came into this world. Whether you were born naturally or by other means, you survived nine long months in the womb and the trauma of the birth canal. You were determined to thrive therefore; you popped your head out right on time and cried. It was your way of announcing to the world that you were here and that you will not be silenced. Immediately, you had the attention of everyone who was running at your bidding, doctors and nurses, to pronounce you healthy. You had the biggest smile from your mama as she welcomed you into the world. Cradling you in her arms while swaddling you with love and the warmth of her breast. You grabbed hold of that breast and had your first meal outside of the womb. After all, you knew exactly what to do, because you were born with the intelligence to do so.
Preparation for life
Welcome to the training ground of this life. You were born a baby, but we do not expect you to remain there. You were meant to explore your surroundings, become curious, question things, figure out how stuff works and earn social and relationship-building skills. Humans were created to live harmoniously with each other and the universe by caring for each other and our environment. You are here because you have a purpose to be fulfilled. What matters most is how you spend your time here and the legacy that you will leave for future generations. We were not born to occupy space. We came fully equipped with everything that we need to function here on earth. God who created us gave us gifts, talents and a brain that is superior to all the computers that modern man can make. He wants us to use our gifts and talents for the betterment of humanity. We are called to make an impact in this world; therefore, we should seek out those opportunities that are rewarding, honest, and efficacious and throw ourselves into them for the sole purpose of making the lives of the future generation better.
Pain with a purpose
We were created for God’s pleasure, and He delights in us and our sincere worship. However, He didn’t provide us with an all-expense paid pass in this life because He knows what is best for us. The joy and pains are measured to keep us on the path of righteousness and truth. Many of us have experienced intense pain and suffering in our lives at some point. These are just stumbling blocks on the way to greatness. When we have endured the furnace of this life, it will equip us with the resilience that is necessary to help us spearhead and advance the cause that we are passionate about and for which we were chosen. You will have tribulations but be of good cheer I have overcome the world. (John 16:33)
When your life has a purpose, you will experience pain. Most times the pain is unbearable, however, it brings forth joy as any mother will tell you. After hours of laboring, filled with anguish and excruciating pain, the voice of crying signals that a new life has sprung forth and that labor has ended. (John 16:21) The mother’s heart rejoices with love, gratitude and appreciation for this child that she carried for nine months and that is now the excellent fruit of her labor.
The testing
Similarly, college requires a series of exams that tests one’s competency at different levels. Although you went in as a Freshman they expect you to advance to the various levels, Sophomore, Junior and eventually Senior. This is the most critical part of the journey because this is where the true test begins. There is a final exam and you will be tested on everything you have learned, hence the make-or-break moment. Many have persevered and received their rewards of accolades, honors, and awards, while others failed to make their mark because they simply were not prepared for college life. There is life after college that is filled with endless possibilities; advanced education, high-paying jobs, promotions, social and economic status, fame, fortune and maybe just about anything this world offers. Is this enough?
Our lives are not accidents
Nothing occurs in our lives by accident it was divinely appointed. Even the horrendous and evil things that were designed to destroy us. Although painful and vicious, they teach us persistence, patience, resilience and perseverance, which is the stock that great men and women are made of. When we study the Bible, we come across many great men and women who were severely tried and tested. Moses was an innocent child. He did nothing wrong yet because of Pharoah’s edict against all children under two years old, his life was in grave danger. His parents, through wisdom, placed their three months old son in a basket on the river. He was young and defenceless and to the human, his fate would be death from river monsters or drowning. However, God, who controlled all circumstances, send him help in the nick of time. His rescuer was not an ordinary person but the king’s daughter. She had compassion for him and raised him as a prince in the palace, which was prepared by God as a training ground for greatness. (Exodus 2: 1-10)
Paul the apostle prosecuted Christians with great zeal. This he did out of ignorance. God called him on the road to Damascus and he repented. He became one of the most influential ministers of the gospel, a prolific writer and proponent of the Gospel message. They also persecuted him with the same zeal he had when he oppressed God’s people. (Acts 22:1-10)
It doesn’t matter where you are on the path of life. Whether you are on the off-track, sidetrack, or beaten track, you are important and have so much potential. There is still time for you to accomplish the dream that was created for you by your Father, God. Here’s my hand. Let me help you along the way.