The Purpose-Driven Life

A Journey with a Purpose
   Don't just read this book. Interact with it. Underline it.
FOUR FEATURES TO HELP YOU
   • A Point to Ponder. This is a nugget of truth that summarizes a principle of purpose-driven living that you    can reflect on throughout your day. 
   • A Verse to Remember. This is a Bible verse that teaches a truth from that chapter. If you really want to  improve your life, memorizing Scripture may be the most important habit you can begin. 
   • A Question to Consider. These questions will help you think about the implications of what you have read and how it applies to you personally. 
   • Discussion Questions. I strongly urge you to get one or more friends to join you in reading

 • For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible,. . . everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him.
Colossians 1:16 (Msg)
 • Unless you assume a God, the question of life's purpose is meaningless.
Bertrand Russell, atheist

DAY ONE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: It's not about me.
Verse to Remember: "Everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him." Colossians 1: 16b (Msg)
Question to Consider: In spite of all the advertising around me, how can I remind myself that life is really about living for God, not myself?

 • I am your Creator. You were in my care even before you were born.
Isaiah 44:2a (CEV)
 • God doesn't play dice.
Albert Einstein

DAY TWO - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I am not an accident.
Verse to Remember: "I am your Creator. You were in my care even before you were born." Isaiah 44:2 (CEV)
Question to Consider: I know that God uniquely created me. What areas of my personality, background, and physical appearance am I struggling to accept?

 • I observed that the basic motive for success is the driving force of envy and jealousy!
Ecclesiastes 4:4 (LB)
 • The man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder-a waif, a nothing, a no man.
Thomas Carlyle

   Many people are driven by guilt. 
   Many people are driven by resentment and anger. 
   Many people are driven by fear. 
   Many people are driven by materialism. 
   Many people are driven by the need for approval. 
   THE BENEFITS OF PURPOSE-DRIVEN LIVING
      - Knowing your purpose gives meaning to your life. 
      - Knowing your purpose simplifies your life. 
      - Knowing your purpose focuses your life. 
      - Knowing your purpose motivates your life. 
      - Knowing your purpose prepares you for eternity. 

DAY THREE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Living on purpose is the path to peace.
Verse to Remember: "You, LORD, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you." Isaiah 26:3 (TEV)
Question to Consider: What would my family and friends say is the driving force of my life? What do I want it to be?

 • God has ... planted eternity in the human heart.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 (N LT)
 • Surely God would not have created such a being as man to exist only for a day!  No, no, man was made for immortality.
Abraham Lincoln

DAY FOUR - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: There is more to life than just here and now.
Verse to Remember: "This world is fading away, along with everything it craves.  But if you do the will of God, you will live forever:" 1 John 2:17 (NLT)
Question to Consider: Since I was made to last forever, what is the one thing I should stop doing and the one thing I should start doing today?

 • What is your life?
James 4:14b (NIV)
 • We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are.
Anais Nin

   The Bible offers three metaphors that teach us God's view of life: Life is a test, life is a trust, and life is a temporary assignment. 
      - Life on earth is a Test. 
      - Life on earth is a Trust. 

DAY FIVE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Life is a test and a trust.
Verse to Remember: "Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won't be faithful in large ones."
Luke I6:l0a (NLT)
Question to Consider: What has happened to me recently that I now realize was a test from God? What are the greatest matters God has entrusted to me?

 • LORD, remind me how brief my time on earth will be. Remind me that my days are numbered, and that my life is fleeing away.
Psalm 39:4 (NET)
 • I am here on earth for just a little while.
Psalm 119:19 (TEV)

DAY SIX - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: This world is not my home.
Verse to Remember: "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
Question to Consider: How should the fact that life on earth is just a temporary assignment change the way I am living right now?

 • Everything comes from God alone.  Everything lives by his power, and everything is for his glory.
Romans 11:36 (LB)
 • The LORD has made everything for his own purposes.
Proverbs 16:4 (NLT)

   We bring God glory by worshiping him. 
   We bring God glory by loving other believers. 
   We bring God glory by becoming like Christ. 
   We bring God glory by serving others with our gifts. 
   We bring God glory by telling others about him..

DAY SEVEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: It's all for him.
Verse to Remember: "For everything comes from God alone. Everything lives by his
power, and everything is for his glory." Romans 11:36 (LB)
Question to Consider: Where in my daily routine can I become more aware of God's
glory?

 • You created everything, and it is for your pleasure that they exist and were created.
Revelation 4:11 (NLT)
 • The Lord takes pleasure in his people.
Psalm 149:4a (TEV)

   Bringing pleasure to God is called "worship." 
      - Worship is far more than music. 
      - Worship is not for your benefit. 
      - Worship is not a part of your life; it is your life. 

DAY EIGHT - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I was planned for God's pleasure.
Verse to Remember: "The LORD takes pleasure in his people." Psalm 149:4a (TEV)
Question to Consider: What common task could I start doing as if I were doing it directly for Jesus?

 • May the LORD smile on you....
Numbers 6:25 (NLT)
 • Smile on me, your servant; teach me the right way to live.
Psalm 119:135 (Msg)

   God smiles when we love him supremely. 
   God smiles when we trust him completely. 
   God smiles when we obey him wholeheartedly. 
   God smiles when we praise and thank him continually. 
   God smiles when we use our abilities. 

DAY NINE
THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: God smiles when I trust him.
Verse to Remember: "The Lord is pleased with those who worship him and trust his love." Psalm 147:11 (CEV)
Question to Consider: Since God knows what is best, in what areas of my life do I need to trust him most?

 • Give yourselves to God.... Surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes.
Romans 6:13 (TEV)

   Can I trust God? 
   Admitting our limitations. 
   What it means to surrender. Surrendering to God is not passive … Surrendering is best demonstrated in obedience. 
   The blessing of surrender. 
   The best way to live. 

DAY TEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: The heart of worship is surrender.
Verse to Remember: "Surrender your whole being to him to be used for righteous purposes."  Romans 6:13b (TEV)
Question to Consider: What area of my life am I holding back from God?

 • Since we were restored to friendship with God by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be delivered from eternal punishment by his life.
Romans 5:10 (NLT)

   BECOMING A BEST FRIEND OF GOD
      - Through constant conversation. 
      - Through continual meditation. 

DAY ELEVEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: God wants to be my best friend.
Verse to Remember: "Friendship with God is reserved for those who reverence him." Psalm 25:14a (LB)
Question to Consider: What can I do to remind myself to think about God and talk to him more often throughout the day?

 • He offers his friendship to the godly.
Proverbs 3:32 (NLT)
 • Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you.
James 4:8 (NLT)

   I must choose to be honest with God. 
   I must choose to obey God in faith. 
   I must choose to value what God values. 
   I must desire friendship with God more than anything else.
   YOUR MOST IMPORTANT RELATIONSHIP
      There is nothing-absolutely nothing-more important than developing a friendship with God. 

DAY TWELVE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I'm as close to God as I choose to be.
Verse to Remember: "Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you."  James 4:8 a (NLT)
Question to Consider: What practical choices will I make today in order to grow closer to God?

 • Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.
Mark 12:30 (NIV)

   God is pleased when our worship is accurate. 
   God is pleased when our worship is authentic. 
   God is pleased when our worship is thoughtful..
   God is pleased when our worship is practical. 

DAY THIRTEEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: God wants all of me.
Verse to Remember: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." Mark 12:30 (NIV)
Question to Consider: Which is more pleasing to God right now-my public worship or my private worship? What will I do about this?

 • The LORD has hidden himself from his people, but I trust him and place my hope in him.
Isaiah 8:17 (TEV) -

   Tell God exactly how you feel. 
   Focus on who God is-his unchanging nature. 
   Trust God to keep his promises. 
   Remember what God has already done for you. 

DAY FOURTEEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: God is real, no matter how I feel.
Verse to Remember: "For God has said, `I will never leave you; I will never abandon you."' Hebrews 13:5 (TEV)
Question to Consider: How can I stay focused on God's presence, especially when he feels distant?

 • God is the one who made all things, and all things are for his glory. He wanted to have many children share his glory.
Hebrews 2:10a (NCV)
 • See how very much our heavenly Father loves us, for he allows us to be called his children, and we really are!
1 John 3:1 (NLT)

   BENEFITS OF BEING IN GOD'S FAMILY
      The moment you were spiritually born into God's family, you were given some astounding birthday gifts: the family name, the family likeness, family privileges, family intimate access, and the family inheritance!? 
   BAPTISM: IDENTIFYING WITH GOD'S FAMILY
   LIFE'S GREATEST PRIVILEGE
      You are a part of God's family, and because Jesus makes you holy, God is proud of you! 

DAY FIFTEEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I was formed for God's family.
Verse to Remember: "His unchanging plan has always been to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ." Ephesians 1:5 a (NLT)
Question to Consider: How can I start treating other believers like members of my own family?

 • No matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I'm bankrupt without love.
1 Corinthians 13:3b (Msg)
 • Love means living the way God commanded us to live. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is this: Live a life of love.
2 John 1:6 (NCV)

   Life without love is really worthless. 
   Love will last forever. 
   We will be evaluated on our love. 
   THE BEST TIME TO LOVE IS NOW

DAY SIXTEEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Life is all about love.
Verse to Remember: "The entire law is summed up in a single command: Love Your Neighbor as yourself."
Galatians 5:14 (NIV)
Question to Consider: Honestly, are relationships my first priority? How can I ensure that they are?

 • You are members of God's very own family, citizens of God's country, and you belong in God's household with every other Christian.
Ephesians 2:19b (LB)
 • God's family is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.
1 Timothy 3:15b (GWT)

   YOUR LOCAL FELLOWSHIP
      The Bible says a Christian without a church home is like an organ without a body, a sheep without a flock, or a child without a family. It is an unnatural state. 
   WHY YOU NEED A CHURCH FAMILY
      A church family identifies you as a genuine believer. 
      A church family moves you out of self-centered isolation. 
      A church family helps you develop spiritual muscle. 
      The Body of Christ needs you. 
      You will share in Christ's mission in the world. 
      A church family will help keep you from backsliding. 
   IT'S ALL IN THE CHURCH
      He created the church to meet your five deepest needs: a purpose to live for, people
to live with, principles to live by, a profession to live out, and power to live on. 
   YOUR CHOICE
      The difference between being a church attender and a church member is commitment.

DAY SEVENTEEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I am called to belong, not just believe.
Verse to Remember: "In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others." Romans 12:5 (NIV)
Question to Consider: Does my level of involvement in my local church demonstrate that I love and am committed to God's family?

 • Each one of you is part of the body of Christ, and you were chosen to live together in peace.
Colossians 3:15 (CEV)
 • How wonderful it is, how pleasant, for God's people to live together in harmony!
Psalm 133:1 (TEV)

   In real fellowship people experience authenticity. 
   In real fellowship people experience mutuality. 
   In real fellowship people experience sympathy. 
   In real fellowship people experience mercy. 

DAY EIGHTEEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I need others in my life.
Verse to Remember: "Share each other's troubles and problems, and in this way obey the law of Christ." Galatians 6:2 (NLT)
Question to Consider: What one step can I take today to connect with another believer at a more genuine, heart-to-heart level?

 • You can develop a healthy, robust community that lives right with God and enjoy its results only if you do the hard work of getting along with each other, treating each other with dignity and honor.
James 3:18 (Msg)
 • They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers.
Acts 2:42 (Msg)

   Cultivating community takes honesty. 
   Cultivating community takes humility. 
   Cultivating community takes courtesy. 
   Cultivating community takes confidentiality. 
   Cultivating community takes frequency. 

DAY NINETEEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Community requires commitment.
Verse to Remember: "We understand what love is when we realize that Christ gave his life for us. That means we must give our lives for other believers." 1 John 3:16 (GWT)
Question to Consider: How can I help cultivate today the characteristics of real community in my small group and my church?

 • [God] has restored our relationship with him through Christ, and has given us this ministry of restoring relationships.
2 Corinthians 5:18 (GWT)

   Talk to God before talking to the person. 
   Always take the initiative. 
   Sympathize with their feelings. 
   Confess your part of the conflict. 
   Attack the problem, not the person. 
   Cooperate as much as possible. 
   Emphasize reconciliation, not resolution. 

DAY TWENTY - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Relationships are always worth restoring.
Verse to Remember: "Do everything possible on your part to live in peace with everybody."
Romans 12:18 (TEV)
Question to Consider: Who do I need to restore a broken relationship with today?

 • You are joined together with peace through the spirit, so make every effort to continue together in this way.
Ephesians 4:3 (NCV)
 • Most of all, let love guide your life, for then the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony.
Colossians 3:14 (LB)

   Focus on what we have in common, not our differences. 
   Be realistic in your expectations. 
   Choose to encourage rather than criticize. 
   Refuse to listen to gossip. 
   Practice God's method for conflict resolution. 
   Support your pastor and leaders. 

DAY TWENTY-ONE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: It is my responsibility to protect the unity of my church.
Verse to Remember: "Let us concentrate on the things which make for harmony and the
growth of our fellowship together." Romans 14:19 (Ph)
Question to Consider: What am I personally doing to protect unity in my church
family right now?

 • God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son.... We see the original and intended shape
of our lives there in him.
Romans 8:29 (Msg)
 • We look at this son and see God's original purpose in everything created.
Colossians 1:15 (Msg)

   GOD'S SPIRIT WORKING IN YOU
      - We must cooperate with the Holy Spirit's work. 
      - God uses his Word, people, and circumstances to mold us. 
      - Becoming like Christ is a long, slow process of growth. 

DAY TWENTY-TWO - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I was created to become like Christ.
Verse to Remember: "As the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more." 2 Corinthians 3:18b (NLT)
Question to Consider: In what area of my life do I need to ask for the Spirit's power to be like Christ today?

 • God wants us to grow up ... like Christ in everything.
Ephesians. 4:15a (Msg)
 • We are not meant to remain as children.
Ephesians 4:14a (Ph)

   God's part and your part. 
      This verse shows the two parts of spiritual growth: "work out" and "work in." The "work out" is your responsibility, and the "work in" is God's role. 
   Changing your autopilot. 

DAY TWENTY-THREE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: It is never too late to start growing.
Verse to Remember: "Let God transform you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know the will of God-what is good and is pleasing to him and is perfect." Romans 12:2b (TEV)
Question to Consider: What is one area where I need to stop thinking my way and start thinking God's way?

 • People need more than bread for their life; they must feed on every word of God.
Matthew 4:4 (N LT)
 • God's ... gracious Word can make you into what he wants you to be and give you everything you could possibly need.
Acts 20:32 (Msg)

   ABIDING IN GOD'S WORD
      I must accept its authority. 
      I must assimilate its truth. 
      I must apply its principles. 

DAY TWENTY-FOUR -THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: The truth transforms me.
Verse to Remember: "If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples indeed; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:31-32 (KJV)
Question to Consider: What has God already told me in his Word that I haven't started doing yet?

 • For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.
2 Corinthians 4:17 (N l v)
 • It is the fire of suffering that brings forth the gold of godliness.
Madame Guyon

   UNDERSTANDING ROMANS 8:28-29
      "We know": Our hope in difficult times is …  a certainty based on the truths that God is in complete control of our universe and that he loves us.
      "that God causes": There's a Grand Designer behind everything. 
      "everything": God's plan for your life involves all that happens to you-including your
mistakes, your sins, and your hurts. 
      "to work together": Not separately or independently. 
      "for the good": This does not say that everything in life is good. Much of what happens in our world is evil and bad, but God specializes in bringing good out of it. 
      "of those who love God and are called": This promise is only for God's children. 
      "according to his purpose": What is that purpose? It is that we "become like his Son."
   BUILDING CHRISTLIKE CHARACTER
   RESPONDING TO PROBLEMS AS JESUS WOULD
      Remember that God's plan is good. 
      Rejoice and give thanks. 
      Refuse to give up. 

DAY TWENTY-FIVE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: There is a purpose behind every problem.
Verse to Remember: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 (NIV)
Question to Consider: What problem in my life has caused the greatest growth in me?

 • Happy is the man who doesn't give in and do wrong when he is tempted, for afterwards he will get as his reward the crown of life that God has promised those who love him.
James 1:12 (LB)
 • My temptations have been my masters in divinity.
Martin Luther

   Every temptation is an opportunity to do good.
   HOW TEMPTATION WORKS
      - In step one, Satan identifies a desire inside of you. 
      - Step two is doubt. 
      - Step three is deception. 
      - Step four is disobedience. 
   OVERCOMING TEMPTATION
      - Refuse to be intimidated. 
      - Recognize your pattern of temptation and be prepared for it. 
      - Request God's help. 

DAY TWENTY-SIX - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Every temptation is an opportunity to do good.
Verse to Remember: "God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward then will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him." James L 12 (NIT)
Question to Consider: What Christlike character quality can I develop by defeating the most common temptation I face?

 • Run from anything that gives you the evil thoughts ... but stay close to anything that makes you want to do right.
2 Timothy' 2:22 (LB)
 • Remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it.
When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it.
1 Corinthians 10:13 (NLT)

   There is always a way out.
   Refocus your attention on something else. 
   Resist the Devil. 
   Realize your vulnerability. 

DAY TWENTY-SEVEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: There is always a way out.
Verse to Remember: "God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it."
1 Corinthians 10:13b (NLT)
Question to Consider: Who could I ask to be a spiritual partner to help me defeat a persistent temptation by praying for me?

 • Everything on earth has its own time and its own season.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (CEV)
 • I am sure that God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in his grace until his task within you is finally finished on that day when Jesus Christ returns.
Philippians. 1:6 (LB)

   WHY DOES IT TAKE SO LONG?
      - We are slow learners.
      - We have a lot to unlearn. 
      - We are afraid to humbly face the truth about ourselves. 
      - Growth is often painful and scary. 
      - Habits take time to develop. 
   DON'T GET IN A HURRY
      - Believe God is working in your life even when you don't feel it. 
      - Keep a notebook or journal of lessons learned. 
      - Be patient with God and with yourself. 
      - Don't get discouraged. 

DAY TWENTY-EIGHT - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: There are no shortcuts to maturity.
Verse to Remember: "God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again." Philippians 1:6 (NCV)
Question to Consider: In what area of my spiritual growth do I need to be more patient and persistent?

 • It is God himself who has made us what we are and given us new lives from Christ Jesus; and long ages ago he planned that we should spend these lives in helping others.
Ephesians 2:10 (LB)
 • I glorified you on earth by completing down to the last detail what you assigned me to do.
John 17:4 (Msg)

   You were created to serve God.. 
   You are commanded to serve God. 
   PREPARING FOR ETERNITY
      If you aren't serving, you're just existing, because life is meant for ministry.
   SERVICE AND SIGNIFICANCE
      God wants to use you to make a difference in his world. He wants to work through you. 

DAY TWENTY-NINE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Service is not optional.
Verse to Remember: "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
Question to Consider: What is holding me back from accepting God's call to serve him?

 • Your hands shaped me and made me.
Job 10:8 (NIV)
 • The people I have shaped for myself will broadcast my praises.
Isaiah 43:21 (NJB)

   You are a combination of many different factors. 
   HOW GOD SHAPES YOU FOR YOUR MINISTRY
      - Spiritual gifts
      - Heart
      - Abilities
      - Personality
      - Experience
   SHAPE: UNWRAPPING YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS
      God gives every believer spiritual gifts to be used in ministry. 
   SHAPE: LISTENING TO YOUR HEART
      Your heart represents the source of all your motivations-what you love to do and what you care about most. 

DAY THIRTY - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I was shaped for serving God.
Verse to Remember: "God works through different men in different ways, but it is the same God who achieves his purposes through them all." 1 Corinthians 12:6 (Ph)
Question to Consider: In what way can I see myself passionately serving others and loving it?

 • You shaped me first inside, then out; you formed me in my mother's womb.
Psalm 139:13 (Msg)

   SHAPE: APPLYING YOUR ABILITIES
      - All of our abilities come from God. 
      - Every ability can be used for God's glory. 
      - What I'm able to do, God wants me to do. 
   SHAPE: USING YOUR PERSONALITY
      - The Bible gives us plenty of proof that God uses all types of personalities. 
      - We need all kinds of personalities to balance the church and give it flavor. 
   SHAPE: EMPLOYING YOUR EXPERIENCES
      - Family experiences: What did you learn growing up in your family?
      - Educational experiences: What were your favorite subjects in school?
      - Vocational experiences: What jobs have you been most effective in and enjoyed most?
      - Spiritual experiences: What have been your most meaningful times with God?
      - Ministry experiences: How have you served God in the past?
      - Painful experiences: What problems, hurts, thorns, and trials have you learned from?

DAY THIRTY-ONE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Nobody else can be me.
Verse to Remember: "God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God's many kinds of blessings." 1 Peter 4:10 (LB)
Question to Consider: What God-given ability or personal experience can I offer to my church?

 • Since we find ourselves fashioned into all these excellently formed and marvelously functioning parts in Christ's body, lets just go ahead and be what we were made to be.
Romans 12:5 (Msg)
 • What you are is God's gift to you; what you do with yourself is yourgifit to God.
Danish proverb

   DISCOVER YOUR SHAPE
      - Begin by assessing your gifts and abilities. 
      - Consider your heart and your personality. 
      - Examine your experiences and extract the lessons you have learned. 
   ACCEPT AND ENJOY YOUR SHAPE
   KEEP DEVELOPING YOUR SHAPE

DAY THIRTY-TWO - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: God deserves my best.
Verse to Remember: "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."  2 Timothy 2:15 (NN)
Question to Consider: How can I make the best use of what God has given me?

 • Whoever wants to be great must become a servant.
Mark 10:43 (Msg)
 • You can tell what they are by what they do.
Matthew 7:16 (CEV)

   Real servants make themselves available to serve. 
   Real servants pay attention to needs. 
   Real servants do their best with what they have. 
   Real servants do every task with equal dedication. 
   Real servants are faithful to their ministry. 
   Real servants maintain a low profile. 

DAY THIRTY-THREE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I serve God by serving others.
Verse to Remember: "If you give even a cup of cold water to one of the least of my followers, you will surely be rewarded." Matthew 10:42 (NLT)
Question to Consider: Which of the six characteristics of real servants offers the greatest challenge to me?

 • My servant Caleb thinks differently and follows me completely.
Numbers 14:24 (NCV)
 • Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself.
Philippians. 2:5 (Msg)

   Servants think more about others than about themselves. 
   Servants think like stewards, not owners. 
   Servants think about their work, not what others are doing. 
   Servants base their identity in Christ. 
   Servants think of ministry as an opportunity, not an obligation. 

DAY THIRTY-FOUR - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: To be a servant I must think like a servant.
Verse to Remember: "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus."  Philippians 2:5 (NIV)
Question to Consider: Am I usually more concerned about being served or finding ways to serve others?

 • We are weak ... yet by God's power we will live with him to serve you.
2 Corinthians 13:4 (NIV)
 • I am with you; that is all you need. My power shows up best in weak people.
2 Corinthians 12:9a (LB)

   Admit your weaknesses. 
   Be content with your weaknesses. 
   Honestly share your weaknesses. 
   Glory in your weaknesses. 

DAY THIRTY-FIVE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: God works best when I admit my weakness.
Verse to Remember: "My Brace is sufficient for you, my power is made perfect in weakness."  2 Corinthians 12:9a (NIV)
Question to Consider: Am I limiting God's power in my life by trying to hide my weaknesses? What do I need to be honest about in order to help others?

 • In the same way that you gave me a mission in the world, I give them a mission in the world.
John 17:18 (Msg)
 • The most important thing is that I complete my mission, the work that the Lord Jesus gave me.
Acts 20:24 (NCV)

   THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUR MISSION
      Your mission is a continuation of Jesus' mission on earth.
      Your mission is a wonderful privilege. 
      Telling others how they can have eternal life is the greatest thing you can do for them. 
      Your mission has eternal significance. 
      Your mission gives your life meaning. 
      God's timetable for history's conclusion is connected to the completion of our
commission. 
   WHAT IT COSTS TO FULFILL YOUR MISSION
      To fulfill your mission will require that you abandon your agenda and accept God's agenda for your life. 
   ONE MORE FOR JESUS
      I pray that you will always be on the lookout to reach "one more for Jesus" so that
when you stand before God one day, you can say, "Mission accomplished!"

DAY THIRTY-SIX - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: I was made for a mission.
Verse to Remember: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)
Question to Consider: What fears have kept me from fulfilling the mission God made me to accomplish? What keeps me from telling others the Good News?

 • Those who believe in the son of God have the testimony of God in them.
1 John 5:10a (GWT)
 • Your lives are echoing the Master's word ....The news of your faith in God is out. We don't even have to say anything anymore -you're the message!
1Thessalonians 1:8 (Msg)

   Your Life Message has four parts to it:
      Your Life Message includes your testimony. 
         Divide it into four parts:
            1. What my life was like before I met Jesus
            2. How I realized I needed Jesus
            3. How I committed my life to Jesus
            4. The difference Jesus has made in my life
      Your Life Message includes your life lessons. 
      Your Life Message includes sharing your godly passions. 
      Your Life Message includes the Good News. 

DAY THIRTY-SEVEN - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: God wants to say something to the world through me.
Verse to Remember: `Be ready at all times to answer anyone who asks you to explain the hope you have in you, but do it with gentleness and respect."  1 Peter 3:15b-16 (TEV)
Question to Consider: As I reflect on my personal story, who does God want me to share it with?

 • Jesus said to his followers, "Go everywhere in the world, and tell the Good News to everyone."
Mark 16:15 (NCV)
 • Send us around the world with the news of your saving power and your eternal plan for all mankind.
Psalm 67:2 (LB)

   HOW TO THINK LIKE A WORLD-CLASS CHRISTIAN
      - Shift from self-centered thinking to other-centered thinking. 
      - Shift from local thinking to global thinking. 
      - Shift from "here and now" thinking to eternal thinking. 
      - Shift from thinking of excuses to thinking of creative ways to fulfill your commission. 

DAY THIRTY-EIGHT - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: The Great Commission is my commission.
Verse to Remember: "Send us around the world with the news of your saving power and your eternal plan for all mankind." Psalm 67:2 (LB)
Question to Consider: What steps can I take to prepare to go on a short-term missions experience in the next year?

 • Live life with a due sense of responsibility, not as those who do not know the meaning of life but as those who do.
Ephesians 5:15 (Ph)
 • Don't let the errors of evil people lead you down the wrong path and make you lose your balance.
2 Peter 3:17 (CEV)

   1. "Love God with all your heart": 
   2. "Love your neighbor as yourself'.
   3. "Go and make disciples".
   4. "baptize them into . . ."..
   5. "teach them to do all things ...".
   Talk it through with a spiritual partner or small group. 
   Give yourself a regular spiritual check-up. 
   Write down your progress in a journal. 
   Pass on what you know to others. 
   IT'S ALL FOR GOD'S GLORY

DAY THIRTY-NINE - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Blessed are the balanced.
Verse to Remember: "Live life with a due sense of responsibility, not as those who do not know the meaning of life but as those who do." Ephesians 5:15 (Ph)
Question to Consider: Which of the four activities will I begin in order to stay on track and balance God's five purposes for my life?

 • Many are the plans in a man's heart,but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21 (NIV)
 • For David ... served the purpose of God in his own generation.
Acts 13:36 (NASB)

   WHAT IS A LIFE PURPOSE STATEMENT?
      - It's a statement that summarizes God's purposes for your life. 
      - It's a statement that points the direction of your life. 
      - It's a statement that defines "success" for you. 
      - It's a statement that clarifies your roles. 
      - It's a statement that expresses your shape. 
   LIFE'S FIVE GREATEST QUESTIONS
      - What will be the center of my life? 
      - What will be the character of my life? 
      - What will be the contribution of my life? 
      - What will be the communication of my life? 
      - What will be the community of my life? 
   GOD WANTS TO USE YOU

DAY FORTY - THINKING ABOUT MY PURPOSE
Point to Ponder: Living with purpose is the only way to really live.
Verse to Remember: "For David ... served the purpose of God in his own generation." Acts 13:36 (NASB)
Question to Consider: When will I take the time to write down my answers to life's five great questions? When will I put my purpose on paper?

In addition to the questions at the end of each chapter, you can use these discussion questions in your small group or Sunday school class setting.

WHAT ON EARTH AM I HERE FOR?
• What do you think are implications of the first sentence of this book, "It's not about you"?
• What do you feel most people's lives are driven by? What has been the driving force in your life?
• Up to this point, what image or metaphor has best described your life? A race, a circus, something else?
• If everyone understood that life on earth is really preparation for eternity, how would we act differently?
• What do people get attached to on earth that keeps them from living for God's purposes?
• What have you been attached to that could keep you from living for God's purposes?

YOU WERE PLANNED FOR GOD'S PLEASURE
• How is "living your whole life for God's pleasure" different from the way most people understand "worship"?
• How is a friendship with God similar to any other friendship, and how is it different?
• Share something you learned from a time when God seemed distant.
• Which is easier for you-public or private worship? In which do you usually feel closer to God?
• When is it appropriate to express anger to God?
• What fears surface when you think of surrendering your complete life to Christ?

YOU WERE FORMED FOR GOD'S FAMILY
• How is "being as committed to each other as we are to Jesus Christ" different from the way most people understand "fellowship"?
• What are the barriers that keep us from loving and caring for other believers?
• What would make it easier for you to be able to share your needs, hurts, fears, and hopes with others?
• What are the most common excuses people give for not joining a church, and how would you answer them?
• What could our group do to protect and promote the unity in our church?
• Is there someone you need to restore a relationship with that we could pray for you about?

YOU WERE CREATED TO BECOME LIKE CHRIST
• How is "becoming like Jesus Christ" different from the way most people understand "discipleship"?
• What are some of the changes you have seen in your life since you became a believer?  What have others noticed?
• A year from now, how would you like to be more Christlike? What can you do today to move toward that goal?
• Where in your spiritual growth are you having to be patient because there seems to be little progress?
• How has God used pain or trouble to help you grow?
• When are you most vulnerable to temptation? Which of the steps to defeating temptation could help you most?

YOU WERE SHAPED FOR SERVING GOD
• How is "using your shape to serve others" different from the way most people understand "ministry"?
• What do you love to do that you could use to serve others in the family of God?
• Think of a painful experience you have gone through that God could use to help others who are going through the same kind of situation.
• How does comparing ourselves with others keep us from fully developing our unique shape?
• How have you seen God's power demonstrated through you when you felt weak?
• How can we help every member of our small group or class find a place of ministry? What can our group do to serve our church family?

YOU WERE MADE FOR A MISSION
• What are some typical fears and stereotypes that people have when they hear the word "evangelism"? What keeps you from sharing the Good News with others?
• What do you feel might be a part of the Life Message that God has given you to share with the world?
• Share the name of a unbelieving friend that everyone in your group can begin praying for.
• What can our group do together to help fulfill the Great Commission?
• How has reading through this book together refocused or redirected your life purpose? What have been some of the most helpful insights to you?
• Who does God bring to mind that you could share the life changing message of this book with?
• What are we going to study next?