What is the Purpose in the Bible? Find Your Calling!

The Bible is a complex and multifaceted book, but one of its central themes is the idea of purpose. From the very beginning, the Bible tells us that God has a plan for each of our lives, and that our ultimate calling is to fulfill that plan. But what exactly is that plan, and how can we discover it? In this article, we'll explore the concept of calling in the Bible and offer some practical tips for finding your own.

What is "Calling" in the Bible?

When we talk about "calling" in the Bible, we're referring to the idea that God has a specific purpose or mission for each of our lives. This idea is rooted in several key passages in the Bible, including:

• Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
• Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."
• Romans 8:28 - "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

These verses (and many others like them) suggest that God has a specific plan for each of our lives, and that our ultimate purpose is to fulfill that plan. But what does that plan look like, and how can we discover it?

How to Find Your Calling

Discovering your calling is a deeply personal journey, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. However, here are some practical tips that may help:

1. Spend Time in Prayer and Reflection

One of the best ways to discover your calling is to spend time in prayer and reflection. Ask God to reveal His plan for your life, and take the time to listen for His voice. Consider journaling or meditating on Scripture to help you discern His will.

2. Identify Your Passions and Talents

God often calls us to use our gifts and talents to serve Him. Take some time to identify your passions and talents, and consider how you might use them to further God's kingdom. For example, if you have a talent for music, you might consider joining a worship team or using your skills to lead a Bible study.

3. Seek Wise Counsel

Proverbs 15:22 says, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." Seek out wise counsel from trusted mentors, pastors, and friends who can help you discern God's will for your life. They may be able to offer insights or perspectives that you hadn't considered.

4. Be Willing to Step Out in Faith

God often calls us to take bold steps of faith in order to fulfill His plan for our lives. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and take risks for the sake of the Gospel. Remember, God is faithful, and He will always be with you as you follow His leading.

What is the Highest Calling in the Bible?

So what is the highest calling in the Bible? While there are many ways to serve God and fulfill His plan for our lives, there are a few key themes that emerge throughout Scripture:

1. Love God Above All Else

Jesus tells us that the greatest commandment is to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" (Matthew 22:37). Our highest calling is to love God above all else and to seek to honor Him in everything we do.

2. Love Others as Yourself

The second greatest commandment, according to Jesus, is to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39). We are called to love and serve those around us, just as Christ loved and served us.

3. Make Disciples

Before ascending to heaven, Jesus gave His disciples a clear mandate: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20). Our highest calling is to make disciples of all nations, sharing the love and message of Jesus with those around us.

Conclusion

Discovering your calling is a lifelong journey, but it's one that is well worth the effort. As you seek to discern God's plan for your life, remember that your ultimate purpose is to love and serve Him, to love and serve others, and to make disciples of all nations. May God bless you as you seek to fulfill your highest calling in Him.