Biblical Answer

Finding Purpose Beyond Business

When we think of our purpose in life, we often look to our careers, businesses, or personal achievements. However, these things can become obstacles to discovering our true purpose. According to the biblical perspective, our purpose is not found in our own interests or accomplishments, but rather in serving and glorifying God. As the Psalmist says, "May the Lord fulfill all your purposes" (Psalm 20:4). This means that our purpose is not something we create for ourselves, but rather something that is given to us by God.

In a world that values individualism and self-determination, it can be challenging to surrender our understanding of our purpose to God. However, this is precisely what is required of us. As Esther Reed writes, "Our understanding of our ways must also be surrendered, because they are now the ways of the Lord" (Reed, 2010). This means that we must be willing to let go of our own desires and ambitions, and instead, seek to fulfill God's purposes for our lives. By doing so, we can discover a sense of purpose that is not based on our own achievements, but rather on our relationship with God.

In the absence of a transcendent basis for purpose, we may feel lost and without direction. However, the biblical perspective offers a clear and compelling answer to the question of purpose. As J.I. Packer writes, "The only purpose that is worth having is the purpose of glorifying God" (Packer, 1993). This means that our purpose is not something we create for ourselves, but rather something that is given to us by God. By seeking to fulfill God's purposes, we can discover a sense of purpose that is not based on our own achievements, but rather on our relationship with God. This is the key to living a purposeful life, directed towards its true goal. As the Bible says, "Serve the Lord with gladness" (Psalm 100:2). This means that our purpose is not something we create for ourselves, but rather something that is given to us by God. By serving God, we can discover a sense of purpose that is not based on our own achievements, but rather on our relationship with God.