The Purpose Within: Finding Meaning in a Shaken World

Nov 7
4 min read

By Antonette Jeske

A shift has happened.

In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, women everywhere are asking themselves: What is my purpose? What will I leave behind for the generations to follow?

Whether or not one agreed with his stand, there’s no denying the impact of his conviction. When one person lives with clarity of purpose, it awakens something in the rest of us. We remember that legacy isn’t measured in headlines or hashtags but in the courage to live aligned with what we were created for.

When we look to the Bible for the answers that only God can provide, we see that purpose begins and ends with God.

1. Purpose Originates in the Heart of God

Before we ever took a breath, God had a design in mind.

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,” He told Jeremiah (Jer. 1:5). We are not accidents of biology—we are intentional creations.

Purpose isn’t something we invent; it’s something we uncover. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you” (Jer. 29:11).

Even the detours and disappointments are woven into that design. Romans 8:28 reminds us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him.”

True purpose is not in avoiding pain but transformation into wisdom, resilience, and compassion.

2. Purpose Is About Being, Not Just Doing

We often chase purpose through achievement and worldly success. Yet fulfillment doesn’t come from what we do, but from who we become.

Ephesians 2:10 says, “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand.”

Our purpose flows from our design. Living out of sync with that breeds exhaustion; living within it brings peace. This requires humility.

God’s ways rarely match our logic. “My thoughts are not your thoughts,” He says in Isaiah 55:8-9. Purpose often looks less like grand plans and more like quiet obedience—trusting that meaning will unfold in time.

3. Purpose Requires Transformation

Transformation happens when we allow God to realign our mind, body, and spirit to His truth. It’s not isolation from the world but illumination within it—becoming a reflection of grace in places that have forgotten it. Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

A purposeful life rejoices always, prays continually, and gives thanks in all things (1 Thess. 5:16-18). God invites us into this ongoing conversation of gratitude and guidance. In that communion, clarity takes shape.

4. Purpose Is Revealed Through Character

Discernment of God’s will begins with love for God. (Romans 8:28). And purpose is not found only in what we accomplish but in how we live (1 Pet. 2:15).

God also wants for us to be just, love kindness, and walk humbly. Legacies rooted in justice and humility will endure. (Micah 6:8).

As Colossians 1:9-10 teaches, spiritual wisdom bears fruit. Where you see growth, peace, and blessing multiplying through your actions, that is often confirmation of divine alignment.

5. Purpose Unfolds in Time

Discovering your purpose is not always immediate. Hebrews 10:36 reminds us, “You need endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what was promised.”

The path may be slow, but persistence reveals destiny.

Philippians 2:13 offers comfort: “It is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” We are never left to figure it out alone—the Holy Spirit guides each step.

6. Purpose Extends Beyond Ourselves

We often imagine purpose as personal—our dream or success story—but Scripture paints a broader picture. Acts 13:36 says David “served the purpose of God in his own generation.”

Purpose is contextual—it’s always connected to the people and the times we live in. Your family, your community, your sphere of influence—they need your light right now.

Purpose isn’t earned through striving; it’s received through surrender. “He saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of His own purpose and grace” (2 Tim. 1:9). When we release the pressure to manufacture purpose, we make space for grace to work through us.

7. Purpose Builds Legacy

Legacy is not what we leave for people; it’s what we leave in them.

Psalm 138:8 promises, “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.”

Our lives are brushstrokes on a canvas far greater than ourselves. Proverbs 19:21 reminds us, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” His will anchors us when the world shakes.

When we live in step with that eternal rhythm, we become part of something unbreakable—a lineage of faith, courage, and grace that will ripple through generations.

The Invitation

Discovering purpose isn’t about striving harder; it’s about surrendering deeper. It’s the quiet turning of the heart toward the One who made you, trusting that every step—every trial, every triumph—is leading you to who you were meant to be.

Legacy begins not when others remember your name, but when they see God’s reflection in your life.

Visit antonettejeske.com for a devotional companion exploring these Scriptures.

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