Find your purpose

Inspired Thought...
Everyone has a God-given purpose. But unfortunately, many people misinterpret what it is to have a purpose. Most think that "having a real purpose" is being a hero who rescues someone from drastic circumstances, or a celebrity who is rich and famous. But it is exactly how you determine what the word "purpose" means. According to Dictionary.com, the word "purpose" is defined as "the reason for which something exists". But I like the second definition even better: "an intended or desired result, an end goal". In other words, your purpose has nothing to do with fame and fortune. It has everything to do with desiring something, and doing whatever it takes to achieve it. For example, any teacher can understand the desire to have each and every one of their students succeed, and therefore, they work hard to make education interesting and effective. That is a teacher's purpose. And that purpose is the result of a desire and much time and effort.  Ninety-nine percent of the people who have had the most influence in my life have not been celebrities or superheroes, but average, everyday people who work hard for the good of others. People like my parents, grandparents, siblings, teachers, pastors, friends, even the really nice clerk at the grocery store. Take the time today to thank those who have lived out their own special purpose in your life.

Inspired Action...
So you may be asking yourself, "What exactly is my purpose?" It can't possibly be sitting in a cubicle all day long answering the phone, or doing nothing but laundry and dishes! Well, as a matter of fact, yes, that is your purpose. WHAT!?! That can't be! Obviously, I've fallen off my rocker! But, just stop for a second and look at it from this angle. If you were to sit at home all day eating bon-bons in front of the TV, you wouldn't answer that phone call from the elderly lady who is sick and desperately needs health insurance. Or, if you just left all of those dirty clothes and dishes just sitting in the washer, you wouldn't ever be able to know the joy of having more than one pair of pants or a hot meal,  unlike our friends who go to bed cold and hungry. My point is this: Everything, EVERY thing has a purpose, a purpose that is important and should be treasured. The trick is to learn how to accept that purpose, and to live it out to the best of your ability. Try doing today's ordinary things with a spirit of having a truly important purpose. So, put on those rubber gloves, grab some soap, and get to those dishes!

Inspired Living...
You can help others discover their true purpose by strongly encouraging them in their own personal dreams and desires. Especially encourage them in the things that make them happy, for that is where they will most likely give their all. And of course, be sure to live out your own purpose with joy and the light and life of Christ.