In our lives we all seek for purpose. We want to know why we are here and what purpose we fulfill by being here. Many go through a mid-life crisis, looking back on what they have done, and trying to come to grips with the time they have left and what they’ll do with their lives. It was said of Abraham Lincoln that he spent one year in deep depression before his marriage and was afraid that when he died, no one would remember him.

So many, even in the Lord’s church, seek meaning in this life. They want to be remembered in different ways, besides a tombstone in a lonely cemetery. So they seek wealth, popularity, prestige, honor and power. But all of these things are futile—empty and vain. They lead to nothing.

Real meaning is not found in the here and now. The only real meaning is found in Christ and in Him crucified. In Ecclesiastes 12:13, Solomon wrote that to “Fear God and keep His commands was man’s all.” In Matthew 5, Jesus taught that we are to be salt and light, so that the world may see our good works and glorify our Father who is in heaven. Jesus sought to do His Father’s will and please Him above all else (John 4:34; 6:38).

The disciples struggled with this idea of purpose as well. How often do we read of them growing angry because it seemed one or two or them would receive special honors? And how often did Jesus have to teach them that true honor come from serving others (John 13; Matthew 20)?

We are put here on earth to be prepared to spend an eternity with God. While we are here, our purpose is to glorify God and serve others. As Jesus set the example before us, so we must do.

Are we glorifying God with our lives daily? Do we show our love by our obedience to His divine commands? Can people tell we are His by our manner of life?

Do we seek opportunities to serve others? Are we selfish, always looking out for what we want above all else? Or do we esteem others better than ourselves?

Are you fulfilling your God-given purpose?