“What do you want to be when you grow up?”
Before I was old enough to know what grueling and dangerous work it is, my answer to that question was always firefighter. Until it was astronaut, then veterinarian, aeronautical engineer, and nurse-midwife (in some order). Really, I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up until after I grew up.
But embedded in this typical question is the urgency of undiscovered purpose. And the older we get, the wider it grows to include not just college and career decisions, but an overall quest for identity.
What is my purpose? Why am I here?
As a writer for teens of faith, I get lots of questions about future plans and following God’s calling. But the most discerning of my readers also ask questions like, “Why am I here, in this place, right now?”
Hey, I’m Lauren, author of YA Christian fiction and blogger for teens with higher aim.
In This Article
The Big Picture: “Why Am I Here on Earth?”
“That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.”
Ecclesiastes 3:13
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Ephesians 2:10
I think it’s cool that God invites each of us to serve and glorify him in a specific way. I’ve been called to encourage young adult Christians through my blog and fiction writing. That’s where my passions and talents align with a need in the world. You may have a different calling, one yet undiscovered. Is it in healthcare? Education? Marketing? Ministry? The trades?
Wherever you end up, your broad purpose (and mine) is to love and serve God and others. So while the specifics of that might be a little unclear right now, the general purpose remains the same. You’re not just here to “bide time” until you get to heaven. There’s work to be done on earth, even as you keep your eyes on eternity.
But don’t be so focused on the broad picture that you miss the narrow picture: your purpose right now.
The Narrow Picture: “Why Am I Here, in This Place?”
“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.”
Proverbs 19:21
You have a purpose right now, in the very place you’re sitting and reading this post. Have you asked yourself what it is? Sometimes, we’re so singularly focused on the future, and careers, and planning the next big thing that we forget the present. Then, when things go haywire, we think it’s Satan trying to distract us from God’s purpose. Or, worse, we question God’s love and might.
“God, why did you allow this to happen?”
God has plans for you that might involve a career, a family, etc., but he will also use you for other purposes along the way. These little “detours” might not be all that pleasant in the moment. But instead of asking “Why did you allow this?” ask “What is my purpose, Lord? Why am I here?”
What is my purpose while sitting in the hospital with a broken leg instead of helping my team in the playoffs?
Those who truly wish to serve and glorify God will look for purpose even in the unscripted moments.
What is my purpose in washing dishes at the local diner while all my friends are on a mission trip I couldn’t afford?
What is my purpose while I attend Grandpa’s funeral and miss an important class?
Why am I here, right now?
Those who truly wish to serve and glorify God will look for purpose even in the unscripted moments. Nothing is by accident or chance. God invites you to glorify him and love others in every moment, every day.
Discovering Your Christian Purpose Everywhere
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do.”
1 Peter 1:15
“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
Colossians 4:5-6
Sometimes it’s easy to identify your Christian purpose. When a conversation about Jesus pops up and someone ends up turning to faith, you might think, “Aha! That’s why I’m here today.”
But having soul-turning conversations isn’t the only way to serve God in the moment.
Sometimes a smile or kind word is what’s needed. Perhaps the nurse assisting you in the emergency room has had a rough day and needs to spend time in the presence of someone who is courteous even under distress. Or maybe someone who has sworn off God and Christianity will change his mind about Christians once he encounters your upbeat and open-minded personality.
“Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16
Don’t be so distracted by your phone that you miss your Christian purpose in any given moment!
For more practical advice on how you can serve God today: Work, School & Play: How to Serve God In Everyday Life
God’s Purpose For Your Life: More Resources For Teens
You don’t have to have all the answers.
But, hey, why not?
Bring me your questions about faith, life, God, the Bible… and I’ll help you find the answers.
Learn more about glorifying God with your life in Let Your Life Be a Glimpse of God’s Glory.
I talk more about trusting God when bad things happen in Faith Over Fear: “I Am NOT Afraid of Bad News.” And for those of you still scratching your heads about God’s purpose for your life down the road, check out Life After High School: Just Pick Something and Do It!
Still struggling? Check out Dear Teenager: Life is Hard, and God is with You from Rooted Ministry.
Thanks Lauren! I have been enjoying these very thoughts this summer. I was thinking of Joseph and how he was sold as a slave by his brothers, put in prison wrongfully but God was able to use and bless him. I know you are writing this for young people but there is no time in our lives that God is done using us.
Great comparison! Joseph is a prime biblical example of someone serving his purpose despite having his plans changed.
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