Encountering Jesus: Discovering Our God-Given Purpose

Devotional

Day 1: Fix Your Eyes on Jesus for True Purpose

When we intentionally focus on Jesus, our attention shifts away from ourselves and our anxieties, allowing us to experience humility, reflection, and a renewed sense of purpose. Communion is a powerful reminder of this, as we remember Christ’s sacrifice and the new covenant in His blood, which frees us from striving and self-centeredness. By fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, we are invited into a life that is anchored in His love and purpose, rather than our own limitations or distractions. This focus brings clarity, peace, and a deep assurance that our lives matter because of what He has done for us. [32:35]

Hebrews 12:2 (ESV)
"Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you’ve been overly focused on yourself or your own struggles? How can you intentionally shift your focus to Jesus today and invite Him to redefine your purpose in that area?

Day 2: Jesus Gives Peace and Proof in the Midst of Doubt

Even when we are troubled, fearful, or doubting, Jesus meets us right where we are, speaking peace over our lives and offering the proof we need to believe. The disciples were overwhelmed by fear and confusion after the resurrection, but Jesus appeared to them, showed them His hands and feet, and invited them to touch and see that He was truly alive. In the same way, Jesus is not afraid of our doubts or questions; He invites us to bring them to Him, promising to provide the assurance and clarity we need to move from fear to faith. One encounter with Jesus can change everything, revealing our true identity and purpose in Him. [01:01:28]

Luke 24:36-43 (ESV)
"As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, 'Peace to you!' But they were startled and frightened and thought they saw a spirit. And he said to them, 'Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.' And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, 'Have you anything here to eat?' They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate before them."

Reflection: What doubts or fears are you carrying today? Take a moment to honestly bring them to Jesus and ask Him to speak His peace and show you His presence in a tangible way.

Day 3: Your Purpose Is Grounded in God’s Word

Our true purpose is not found in our own ambitions or desires, but is rooted in the words and promises of Jesus as revealed in Scripture. Jesus reminded His disciples that everything written about Him in the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms had to be fulfilled, and He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. In the same way, God has hidden treasures and guidance for us in His Word, and He invites us to search them out, promising to reveal more as we steward what He has already spoken. When we align our lives with the Bible and Jesus’ prophetic words, we discover a purpose that is both eternal and unshakeable. [01:06:57]

Luke 24:44-45 (ESV)
"Then he said to them, 'These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms must be fulfilled.' Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures."

Reflection: Is there a promise or instruction from God’s Word that you have neglected or forgotten? How can you revisit and steward that word today as you seek clarity in your purpose?

Day 4: You Have an Eternal and Global Purpose

God’s purpose for your life is not just for this moment or for your immediate surroundings—it is eternal and global in scope. Jesus declared that repentance and forgiveness of sins would be preached in His name to all nations, and that His followers are witnesses to these things. Every time you say yes to God and no to sin, you are participating in something eternal, and your prayers, giving, and obedience can impact people across the world. Your purpose is to carry the message of Jesus beyond yourself, investing in the next generation and supporting the spread of the gospel to all nations. [01:10:30]

Luke 24:46-48 (ESV)
"And said to them, 'Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things.'"

Reflection: What is one practical way you can participate in God’s global purpose today—whether through prayer, giving, sharing your faith, or supporting missions?

Day 5: Your Purpose Is Empowered by the Holy Spirit and Requires Obedience

God does not just give you a purpose—He empowers you to fulfill it through the Holy Spirit. Jesus told His followers to stay in the city until they were clothed with power from on high, reminding them that their purpose would require both waiting and obedience, as well as sacrifice and trust. The Holy Spirit equips you with everything you need to accomplish God’s assignments, and as you walk in obedience, you experience blessing, joy, and a life marked by worship and humility. Your purpose is not just about what you do, but about living in daily dependence on God’s Spirit and giving Him praise in all things. [01:19:11]

Luke 24:49-53 (ESV)
"And behold, I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.' Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple blessing God."

Reflection: Where is God asking you to wait, obey, or step out in faith today? How can you rely on the Holy Spirit’s power to fulfill your purpose and respond with worship and humility?

Sermon Summary

Today, the focus is on encountering Jesus and discovering the purpose He has for each of us. When we fix our eyes on Jesus, especially in moments like communion, our attention shifts away from ourselves and onto Him, leading us into humility, reflection, and gratitude. Jesus’ sacrifice—His body broken and His blood shed—ushers us into a new covenant, freeing us from old patterns and inviting us into resurrection life. This is not just a personal experience but one that connects us to the global body of Christ, as we join with believers everywhere in declaring His worthiness.

Healthy relationships are a vital part of this journey. The church is a place to experience God, understand His Word, and build life-giving connections. Whether through a simple greeting, joining a life group, or sharing testimonies of God’s faithfulness, we are called to steward our victories and encourage one another. Giving—of our finances, time, and talents—is another way we reflect God’s character, break free from greed, and participate in His kingdom work.

A key challenge addressed is the danger of purposelessness. When we lack direction, we become vulnerable to the enemy’s counterfeit purposes. But Jesus offers us a true, God-given purpose as our inheritance—one that is available now because of His finished work on the cross. The story from Luke 24 illustrates how Jesus meets His disciples in their confusion and fear, offering peace, proof of His resurrection, and a renewed sense of mission. Even when doubt and trauma cloud our vision, Jesus invites us to touch, see, and believe, grounding our purpose in a real encounter with Him.

Purpose in Jesus brings joy, amazement, and adventure. It is rooted in His Word, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and requires both faith and obedience. Our purpose is not just for ourselves but is eternal and global, meant to impact generations and nations. Every aspect of life—work, relationships, service, and even daily routines—can be connected to God’s purpose. This purpose will require sacrifice and stewardship, but it is the place of blessing, worship, and transformation. As we seek an upgrade in our sense of purpose, we are invited to draw near to Jesus, listen for His voice, and step into the adventure He has prepared for us.

Key Takeaways

1. Purpose is the Antidote to Purposelessness: When life feels aimless or dictated by circumstances, it’s easy to drift into unproductive or even destructive patterns. The enemy exploits this void, offering counterfeit purposes that ultimately lead to bondage. But in Christ, purpose is not just a vague idea—it is a specific inheritance, made available through Jesus’ death and resurrection, and it is essential for a life of meaning and impact. [49:35]
2. Encountering Jesus Transforms Doubt and Trauma: The disciples’ fear and confusion after the resurrection show how trauma can blind us to God’s presence and purpose. Yet, Jesus meets us in our doubts, offering tangible proof and inviting us to move from fear to faith. Real encounters with Jesus are the foundation for discovering who we truly are and what we are called to do. [61:28]
3. Purpose is Grounded in God’s Word and Empowered by the Spirit: Jesus reminded His followers of the Scriptures and opened their minds to understand them, showing that our purpose is always aligned with His Word. But He also promised the Holy Spirit’s power, ensuring that we are not left to fulfill our calling in our own strength. Every assignment from God comes with the empowerment needed to accomplish it. [66:21]
4. Our Purpose is Both Eternal and Global: The call to repentance, forgiveness, and witness is not limited to our personal lives or local communities. Eternity begins now, and our actions have lasting significance. We are invited to participate in God’s global mission, impacting nations through prayer, giving, and going, and leaving a legacy that outlives us. [70:30]
5. Obedience, Sacrifice, and Worship Unlock Blessing: Fulfilling God’s purpose requires obedience, often in the face of fear or uncertainty. Sacrifice is part of the journey, but it is always worth it, as it leads to deeper blessing and joy. Worship and praise keep us humble, grateful, and aligned with God’s heart, fueling our purpose and sustaining us through every season. [01:24:44]
** [84:44]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[32:35] - Communion: Remembering Jesus
[34:18] - The New Covenant and Christ’s Sacrifice
[38:12] - Building Healthy Relationships
[43:26] - Generosity and Kingdom Giving
[46:50] - The Danger of Purposelessness
[48:46] - The Enemy’s Counterfeit Purposes
[49:35] - Receiving God’s Purpose as Inheritance
[52:02] - Encountering Jesus: The Disciples’ Story
[55:26] - Jesus Speaks Peace Over Fear
[56:20] - Working Through Doubt and Trauma
[61:28] - Purpose Flows from Encountering Jesus
[66:21] - Purpose Grounded in the Word
[70:30] - Embracing an Eternal and Global Purpose
[74:18] - The Global Mission of the Church
[77:55] - Empowered by the Holy Spirit
[79:11] - Purpose Requires Work and Stewardship
[82:11] - Sacrifice and Obedience in Purpose
[84:44] - Blessing, Worship, and Living as Light
[90:20] - Responding: Seeking an Upgrade in Purpose
[95:06] - Closing and Next Steps

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Luke 24:36-53 — (Jesus appears to the disciples, offers peace, shows proof of His resurrection, opens their minds to the Scriptures, and commissions them with purpose.)

Observation Questions

When Jesus appeared to the disciples in Luke 24, what was their initial reaction, and how did Jesus respond to their fear and doubt? ([55:26])
What physical evidence did Jesus give the disciples to prove He was truly alive and not a ghost? ([56:20])
According to the passage, what did Jesus do to help the disciples understand the Scriptures and their purpose? ([01:06:21])
What instructions did Jesus give the disciples about waiting in the city, and what was the promised gift they were to receive? ([01:17:55])

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think the disciples struggled to believe in Jesus’ resurrection, even after hearing eyewitness accounts? What does this reveal about the impact of trauma and doubt on faith? ([56:20])
Jesus opened the disciples’ minds to understand the Scriptures. What does this suggest about the connection between knowing God’s Word and discovering our purpose? ([01:06:21])
The sermon mentioned that purpose is both an inheritance and a calling for every believer. How does understanding purpose as an “inheritance” change the way someone might approach their life? ([49:35])
Jesus told the disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit before stepping into their mission. What does this teach about the relationship between God’s empowerment and our ability to fulfill His purpose? ([01:17:55])

Application Questions

The sermon described how focusing on Jesus during communion shifts our attention away from ourselves and onto Him, leading to humility and gratitude. Is there a specific area in your life where you need to shift your focus from yourself to Jesus? What would that look like this week? ([32:35])
Healthy relationships are described as vital to our journey with God. Are you currently investing in life-giving relationships within the church? What is one step you could take to build or strengthen a connection this month? ([38:12])
The danger of purposelessness was highlighted as a trap the enemy uses. Have you ever felt “aimless” or like life was just happening to you? What helped you move forward, or what could help you now? ([46:50])
Jesus met the disciples in their confusion and fear, offering peace and proof. Is there an area of doubt or fear in your life where you need to invite Jesus to bring clarity or peace? How can you do that practically? ([55:26])
The sermon challenged us to relate every part of our lives—work, relationships, service, even daily routines—to God’s purpose. Choose one area of your life that feels disconnected from God’s purpose. How could you intentionally connect it to your faith this week? ([01:20:28])
Obedience and sacrifice were described as keys to unlocking blessing and joy. Is there something God is asking you to do that feels like a sacrifice? What would it take for you to say “yes” in faith? ([01:22:11])
The disciples worshiped and praised God continually after receiving their purpose. What is one practical way you can incorporate worship or gratitude into your daily routine to stay aligned with God’s heart? ([01:24:44])

Sermon Clips

So purposelessness for an unbeliever inevitably leads to the enemy filling your life with his purposes, his causes, his addictions, his agenda. The enemy will rush in to fill the space of the purposeless person. We see that in scripture multiple different times and multiple different allusions to it. So he will give you purpose. It'll just be his purpose. Because humans are not built to be purposeless. So we'll fill up on the enemy's purpose so quickly. And some of you have done exactly that before Christ. But for believers, the enemy is 100 % content to keep you trapped in purposelessness. Okay? For your entire life. A purposeless life is a trap of the enemy. Why? [00:48:22] (57 seconds) Edit Clip

Jesus is speaking peace to your fear right now, even while you're in the middle of it, even while you're in the middle of crisis. You need to agree with Jesus' declaration of peace and begin to align yourself with that and declare his peace along with him over your own life. If Jesus is declaring peace over your life, who are you not to declare it to? Right? Begin to agree with his purposes. Declare that peace ahead of the answer. It takes no faith to declare peace after you already have it. Thank you. [00:55:35] (44 seconds) Edit Clip

One touch from Jesus changes everything. One encounter with Jesus changes everything. The point is this, your purpose is related to your encounter with Jesus. Jesus can show you who you are. In fact, in the mirror of your creator, of who he is, that's the only place that you're going to really see who you are. You don't know who you are as well as your creator does, as good as your creator does. And he's the one who shines the light on your purpose, on who you're created to be, on what you're created to do in such a way that it can affect your world effectively more and more for him. Because your purpose is related to your encounter with Jesus. [01:01:10] (53 seconds) Edit Clip

So check this out. Your purpose in Jesus will give you joy and amazement. There is adventure. There is amazement. There is joy on the other side of you realizing your purpose in Jesus. Okay. Not necessarily what you think your purpose is. Not necessarily what you want your purpose to be, but your actual purpose and looking in the mirror of your creator and seeing who he created you to be and knowing and understanding him more and understanding you more. If your purpose and your Christian life is not yet providing you with joy and adventure, I have good news for you. There's more. [01:02:36] (40 seconds) Edit Clip

There's an upgrade available to you in this area of joy. There's an upgrade available to you in the area of wonder and amazement and adventure with God. Okay. He's got plans for you that are full of true joy, not fleeting happiness that can just like kind of come and go, but joy that the world cannot take away from you, that your circumstances cannot take away from you. An amazement and wonder and adventure that's going to make life full, abundant. Good. [01:03:39] (38 seconds) Edit Clip

Sometimes victory is only found on the other side of suffering and sacrifice. Sometimes your purpose is only found on the other side of your crisis week. Sometimes Sunday morning requires a Friday night. Some of you are in the middle of your crisis week. Some of you are on the other side, but you still haven't seen your purpose like these disciples were in this moment. But understand that your purpose is coming. Stay close to Jesus. Stay available for Jesus. Listen to Jesus. Invite Jesus to walk into your life and connect you with your purpose in this moment. And ask him. [01:04:40] (42 seconds) Edit Clip

Anytime you say no to Satan and yes to God, there's something eternal that happens. And no to hell and yes to heaven, there's something eternal that happens. That's repentance. It's a change of heart, mind, and direction. That's what the Bible quizzers are telling us, yeah? It's change. Anytime you change toward God and you say yes to him, that is something eternal. Eternity now starts in your heart. Now. It doesn't wait till you die. It starts now. The Holy Spirit, the greatest miracle happens, comes and lives in you, reminds you of what Jesus said, and is in you shouting, Jesus! Because the Holy Spirit loves Jesus. He adores Jesus. And so he's constantly drawing you toward Jesus. Okay? Eternity starts now. [01:10:47] (47 seconds) Edit Clip

And he has a purpose for your life that makes life worth living. A purpose that adds joy and amazement to life. A purpose that he will empower you to fulfill. And that's one of the fun things about your purpose when it comes to God. God will empower you to fulfill your purpose. He said that you'll be clothed in power. All right. Because your purpose is empowered by the Holy Spirit. Your purpose is related to God's power in you. What if every word from God, an assignment from God, and comes packaged together with the empowering that you need to accomplish that task? [01:18:10] (48 seconds) Edit Clip

He's not going to empower you if you're going to sit on your laurels and do nothing with the gifts he's given you. God's not going to waste his power on useless tasks through you. Your purpose will require stewardship, sacrifice, using your gifting for God as well. Your purpose will require work. You're called to work. You're called to be productive. You're called to have rhythms of work and rhythms of rest and to invest your time and talents. And that purpose of work is for God. It's for others. But it's also for you because you were designed to work. Right? You're built for productive, purposeful work. You're built to honor God with your work. Part of your purpose is your work. But I trust that you also see today that that's not all of it. [01:19:34] (53 seconds) Edit Clip

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