Living with Purpose: Making Your Life Count for Christ

In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters. We can become so consumed with our daily routines and personal ambitions that we forget about the greater purpose God has for our lives. But what if we could shift our perspective and start living in a way that leaves a lasting impact?

The apostle Paul, writing from house arrest in Rome, provides us with a powerful example of how to live with eternal significance. In his letter to the Philippians, he expresses a tension: the desire to be with Christ in heaven, which he describes as "far better," and the need to remain on earth for the sake of others. This internal struggle reveals a fundamental truth about the Christian life: our ultimate goal is to be with Christ, but until that day comes, we have important work to do here on earth.

Paul's words challenge us to ask ourselves a crucial question: If we were gone tomorrow, would the body of Christ feel our absence? Are we making a real difference in the lives of those around us: our families, our church, our community? This isn't about pride or self-importance. Rather, it's about living with such intentionality and love for others that our presence truly matters.

In our consumer-driven culture, it's all too easy to approach church and faith with a "what's in it for me" attitude. We can slip into treating our spiritual lives like a drive-thru experience, expecting instant gratification and bolting at the first sign of inconvenience. But Paul's example calls us to be contributors, not consumers, in the body of Christ.

Every member of the church has a vital role to play. Just as our physical bodies need every part to function properly, so too does the church need each believer to use their God-given gifts and abilities. Whether you can sing, teach, serve behind the scenes, or simply offer a listening ear and words of encouragement, your contribution is essential. God has placed you in your specific church and community for a reason. You are there on assignment, with unique gifts that are needed for the body to thrive.

This truth should both humble and inspire us. On one hand, we must recognize that God doesn't need us to accomplish His purposes. He is all-powerful and could achieve His will without our help. Yet in His grace, He chooses to use ordinary people like us to carry out His extraordinary mission. What an incredible privilege!

So how do we live in a way that truly matters? Paul gives us a clear priority: helping others grow in their faith and experience the joy of knowing Christ. This is the essence of discipleship: clearing a path through the obstacles of life so that others can draw closer to Jesus. It's about investing in people, not accumulating titles or accolades.

Practical discipleship happens in the context of genuine relationships. That's why being part of a small group or mentoring relationship is so crucial for spiritual growth. When we do life together, encouraging one another, praying for each other, and spurring one another on toward Christ, we create an environment where joy and faith can flourish.

Joy, in fact, is a central theme in Paul's letter to the Philippians. He speaks of rejoicing even in the midst of difficult circumstances. This isn't a superficial happiness based on external factors, but a deep-seated joy that comes from knowing and growing in Christ. As we experience this joy ourselves, we naturally want to share it with others. Joy becomes contagious, spreading hope and encouragement throughout the body of Christ.

Living with eternal purpose doesn't mean we have to be perfect. The church is made up of broken, messy people who are in desperate need of God's grace. But when we come together, acknowledging our weaknesses and relying on God's strength, we can make a tremendous impact for His kingdom.

In the spiritual battle we all face, unity is essential. We must resist the temptation to engage in "friendly fire" within the church, remembering that we're all on the same team with the same mission; we want to bring as many people to heaven with us as possible.

As we seek to live lives of eternal significance, here are some questions to ponder:

1. Are you using the gifts God has given you to build up the body of Christ?
2. Is your presence in others' lives drawing them closer to Jesus?
3. Are you intentionally investing in discipleship relationships?
4. Is the joy of Christ evident in your life, even during difficult times?
5. Can you honestly say to others, "Follow me as I follow Christ"?

Remember, at the end of our lives, what will matter most is not the titles we held or the possessions we accumulated. Our legacy will be measured by the souls we've impacted for eternity. Let's commit to living in such a way that we will be genuinely missed when we're gone; not out of pride, but because we've poured ourselves out in service to Christ and His church.

In a world desperately in need of hope, let's be people who radiate the joy of the Lord. As we grow in our relationship with Christ and help others do the same, we'll find that true fulfillment and purpose that our hearts long for. May we echo the words of the psalmist who declared, "Taste and see that the Lord is good!" (Psalm 34:8), inviting others to experience the unshakeable joy found only in Jesus.

Today, let's recommit ourselves to living with eternal purpose. Let's use our gifts, invest in relationships, and pursue Christ with all our hearts. In doing so, we'll leave a legacy that echoes into eternity, making our lives count for something far greater than ourselves.

All for Him,

Pastor Dustin