Recently, while on an extended road trip, I took the opportunity to read some outdated AARP Bulletins that I don’t seem to have time to read while I am at home. I ran across an article by Jo Ann Jenkins entitled “The Power of Purpose”. On the same trip, I read Richard Paul Evans’s book The Four Doors. That then triggered me to think about Rick Warren’s book, A Purpose Driven Life which I had read many years ago. The article and both books focused on finding our purpose in life which then guides us and gives our life meaning.

The AARP article shared that leading behavioral scientists have found the benefits of having a purpose in life. Neurosurgeon Sanjay Gupta revealed those who have found that purpose tend to live longer, healthier and happier lives. Dr. Gupta went on to say “You are signaling your body to make sure that your immune system is functioning at its best”. Author and alternative medical expert, Deepak Chopra add that technology is now able to back the belief that “mind and body are inseparable aspects of our existence”.

Both books focused on the spiritual aspect of having a purpose.  The first “door” in Evans’s book centers on “Believing There’s a Reason You Were Born”. He went on to share his personal belief in finding our purpose and explained it comes from a divine power. You find that purpose by listening to that internal voice that may direct you for the good. To me, this is the Holy Spirit guiding us. We just need to ask God for aid and then listen for his response.

Rick Warren’s work focuses on the basic idea of why we are here on this earth. While some books suggest that people need to look within at their own desires and dreams, Pastor Warren articulates the starting place must be with God and His eternal plan for each life. Real meaning and significance come from understanding and fulfilling God’s purpose for putting us here.

Scripture tells us in Romans 8:28 – And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good for those who are called according to His purpose.

Fyodor Dostoyevsky said “This mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but finding something to live for.”                                                                                                                                            

We have that “something to live for” right at our finger tips.  We all have a purpose for being on this earth. Because of God’s unconditional love for us, He has given us His purpose for our lives. All we have to do is believe in Him, listen to His words and follow what He has for us do for the good of mankind. We all have a divine purpose! Thanks be to God!

Patty