Walking with Purpose: Embracing Our God-Given Mission

Devotional

Day 1: God’s Purpose: Seeking and Saving the Lost

The mission of the church is not complicated: it is to seek and save lost people, just as Jesus did. Too often, we make this purpose more difficult than it needs to be, adding layers of programs, preferences, and distractions that cloud the simple call to love God and love our neighbors. When we focus on the mission of Jesus, we become witnesses to God’s story in the world, sharing how He has transformed our lives and inviting others to experience His grace. The church is not a country club or a holy huddle, but a people on mission, called to bring hope and light to those who need it most. [47:26]

Luke 19:10 (ESV)
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Reflection: Who in your life right now is far from God, and how can you intentionally reach out to them this week with the love and story of Jesus?

Day 2: God’s Presence in the Wilderness

There are seasons when life feels like wandering in the wilderness—uncertain, exhausting, and confusing. Yet, just as God never left the Israelites during their forty years in the desert, He promises to be with you in every step of your journey. Even when you feel lost or unsure of your purpose, God is using these times to prepare you, humble you, and reveal what is truly in your heart. Remember that God’s presence is not dependent on your circumstances; He is faithful, guiding you through every detour and difficulty, and He will never forsake you. [53:01]

Deuteronomy 8:2 (ESV)
“And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not.”

Reflection: Think back to a difficult or confusing season in your life—how did you see God’s presence or guidance during that time, even if it was only in hindsight?

Day 3: Trusting God to Direct Your Path

It’s easy to get distracted by personal preferences, cultural pressures, or fear of the unknown, causing us to lose sight of God’s promises and purpose. The Israelites wandered because they listened to voices of doubt rather than trusting God’s direction. When you submit every part of your life to God—your plans, your worries, your gifts—He promises to make your path straight. Trusting God means saying “yes” to His leading, even when it feels risky or countercultural, and believing that He is faithful to fulfill what He has promised. [55:45]

Proverbs 3:6 (ESV)
“In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are struggling to trust God’s direction, and what would it look like to surrender that area to Him today?

Day 4: Created for Good Works

You are not an accident or a random collection of circumstances; you are God’s handiwork, uniquely created with gifts, passions, and strengths for a purpose. God has prepared good works in advance for you to do, and your life has kingdom significance. When you lean into your God-given strengths and passions, you become part of God’s plan to bring transformation and hope to the world. Don’t compare yourself to others or believe the lie that you have nothing to offer—God designed you on purpose, and the world needs what you bring. [01:03:05]

Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

Reflection: What is one gift or passion God has given you that you have not been using for His kingdom, and how can you take a step to use it this week?

Day 5: Unity and Invitation at the Table

The heart of the church’s mission is to invite all people—regardless of background, status, or differences—to the table of Christ. At this table, there is unity, grace, and a place for everyone who will receive Jesus. The church is called to be a community where barriers are broken down, and where we walk with one another in love, purpose, and passion. As you receive the bread and cup, remember that you are part of a diverse, beautiful family, and that your truest purpose is found in walking with Christ and inviting others to join you at His table. [01:13:53]

Galatians 3:28 (ESV)
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

Reflection: Who is someone different from you—whether in background, beliefs, or experience—that you can invite into deeper friendship or community this week, reflecting the unity of Christ’s table?

Sermon Summary

Today’s gathering was a celebration of God’s ongoing work among us—through baptism, new members joining our community, and the shared table of communion. These visible signs remind us that we are a people called to walk with Jesus, with one another, with passion, and, as we focused on today, with purpose. Each of us is uniquely created by God, not by accident or random chance, but intentionally designed for a reason. Our lives, no matter how winding or uncertain the journey may seem, are woven into God’s greater story and mission.

It’s easy to lose sight of our purpose, both as individuals and as a church. Sometimes we wander, distracted by preferences, programs, or the pressures of culture. Yet, wandering does not mean we are lost. God’s people have always been on a journey—sometimes through wilderness, sometimes through exile—but never abandoned by God. Even when we don’t understand the path, God is present, shaping us for His kingdom work.

The heart of our purpose is simple: to join Jesus in seeking and saving the lost, to love God and our neighbors in tangible, winsome ways. This isn’t about spiritual routines or religious checklists, but about living out our calling as God’s handiwork, created for good works prepared in advance for us. Our “why” must be rooted in God’s design and mission, not in guilt, habit, or obligation. When we start with the Creator, not our calendars or checkbooks, we discover the passion and gifts God has placed within us.

We are each a “10” at something—gifted and called to serve in ways that meet the world’s deepest needs. Sometimes, life knocks us down, but God invites us to get back up and use our gifts for His kingdom. Trying, failing, and trying again is part of the journey. Even if our efforts seem small or unnoticed, every act of love, every friendship formed, every story shared is part of God’s redemptive work.

As we come to the table, we are reminded that the mission is not just about us, but about inviting others—across every divide—to experience the unity and grace of Christ. Our truest purpose is found in walking with Jesus, with passion, with people, and with purpose, wherever He leads.

Key Takeaways

1. You Are Created on Purpose, for a Purpose Every person is intentionally designed by God, not as an accident or afterthought. Your existence is a vital part of God’s plan, and the universe truly needs you. Even if your journey has felt aimless or unplanned, God’s creative hand is at work, shaping you for a unique role in His kingdom. Embrace the truth that your life matters deeply to God and to the world around you. [47:26]
2. Wandering Is Not Wasted—God Prepares Us in the Wilderness The seasons of wandering, confusion, or apparent detours are not signs of God’s absence. Just as God led Israel through the wilderness to humble and prepare them, He uses our journeys—especially the hard and uncertain places—to form us for His purposes. Remembering God’s faithfulness in the past gives us courage to trust Him in the present, knowing He never leaves us, even when the way is unclear. [53:01]
3. The Church’s Mission Is Simple: Seek and Save the Lost Our calling is not to become a holy huddle or a club for the already convinced, but to be a living witness of God’s love to those who do not yet know Him. Discipleship happens in real relationships, not just in rows or programs. When we lose sight of this mission, we lose our way; but when we connect with people of good heart and share our stories, the kingdom of God breaks in. [55:45]
4. Your Passion and Gifts Point to Your Kingdom Assignment God has placed unique passions and strengths within each of us—areas where our deep gladness meets the world’s deep hunger. Don’t wait for perfect conditions or fear failure; step out and try, even if it’s just a small act. Sometimes the greatest impact comes not from grand successes, but from faithful presence and friendship, even if only one life is touched. [66:47]
5. Unity at the Table Reflects Our True Purpose The communion table is a powerful symbol of our mission: to invite all people—regardless of background, status, or opinion—into the unity and grace of Christ. Our purpose is not just personal fulfillment, but to walk together, serving and loving across every divide. As we receive the bread and cup, we are called to be a people who make room for others, embodying the inclusive love of Jesus in all we do.

** [73:12]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:45] - Announcements: I Love This Place & Family Sunday
[02:10] - Baptism Celebration
[15:54] - New Members Welcomed
[19:30] - Series Recap: Walking with Jesus
[22:10] - Walking with Purpose: Why Are We Here?
[28:00] - The Simplicity of the Church’s Mission
[32:45] - Created on Purpose: You Matter
[47:26] - God’s Design and Your Unique Role
[51:45] - Wandering and God’s Faithfulness
[55:45] - The Mission: Seeking and Saving the Lost
[57:26] - Lessons from Israel’s Journey
[63:05] - Passion, Gifts, and Kingdom Assignment
[66:47] - Stepping Out and Trying for Jesus
[73:12] - The Table: Unity and Mission
[81:47] - Communion and Sending Forth

Bible Study Guide

Bible Reading

Ephesians 2:10 (ESV) — > For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Deuteronomy 8:2 (ESV) — > And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not.

Proverbs 3:6 (ESV) — > In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Observation Questions

According to Ephesians 2:10, what does it mean that we are God’s workmanship, and what are we created for?
In Deuteronomy 8:2, what was the purpose of God leading Israel through the wilderness for forty years? What was He testing or teaching them?
The sermon mentioned that “wandering does not mean we are lost.” What examples from the Bible or the sermon support this idea? [[51:45]]
What does Proverbs 3:6 say will happen when we acknowledge God in all our ways?

Interpretation Questions

The sermon says, “Your existence is a vital part of God’s plan, and the universe truly needs you.” How does this truth challenge the way people often see themselves or others? [[47:26]]
Why do you think God allows seasons of wandering or uncertainty in our lives? How might these times prepare us for His purposes? [[53:01]]
The pastor said, “When we lose sight of this mission, we lose our way.” What are some ways churches or individuals can lose sight of their purpose, and what are the consequences? [[55:45]]
The sermon talks about passion and gifts as clues to our “kingdom assignment.” How can someone discern what their unique gifts and passions are, and how should they respond if they feel like they’ve failed or been knocked down? [[01:06:47]]

Application Questions

The sermon challenged us to believe, “You are created on purpose, for a purpose.” Is there an area of your life where you struggle to believe this? What would it look like to embrace this truth this week? [[47:26]]
Think about a time when you felt like you were “wandering” or unsure of your direction. Looking back, can you see how God was present or preparing you during that season? How might that encourage you or someone else today? [[53:01]]
The pastor said, “Our calling is not to become a holy huddle or a club for the already convinced, but to be a living witness of God’s love to those who do not yet know Him.” Who in your life might need to experience God’s love through you? What is one step you can take to reach out to them this week? [[55:45]]
What is something you are passionate about or a gift you have that could meet a need in the world or in our church? What is one small way you could use that passion or gift for God’s kingdom this month? [[01:06:47]]
The sermon encouraged us to “step out and try, even if it’s just a small act.” Is there something you’ve been hesitant to try for God because of fear or past failure? What would it look like to take a “flyer for Jesus” this week? [[01:06:47]]
Communion was described as a table where everyone is invited, regardless of background or status. Is there someone you find it hard to welcome or include? How can you take a step toward unity and grace with them? [[01:13:12]]
The pastor said, “Our truest purpose is found in walking with Jesus, with passion, with people, and with purpose, wherever He leads.” Which of these (Jesus, passion, people, purpose) do you find most challenging right now? What is one way you can grow in that area this week? [[01:21:47]]

Sermon Clips

All we can do is go back to Deuteronomy and remind ourselves that if he didn't leave the people of Israel in Egypt and he didn't leave them in the wilderness, he's not going to leave you and me. He's going to be with us wherever we go. He reminds us to be strong and courageous, to not be fearful or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. The church needs to remember that even when we are walking in days that we don't understand and it feels like wilderness, it feels like exile, it feels like places that we didn't plan to go, God is still God and he's still there. [00:53:49] (35 seconds) #SeekAndSaveTogether

When we lose the purpose in the mission, seeking and saving lost people, all we've become is a holy huddle or a country club for Christians. When we've lost the ability to seek and save lost people, when we've lost the ability to have conversations about who God is and share our story of how God has met us in our lives and how God wants to be a part of their life and have a real relationship with someone face to face, across from them in a cup of coffee or a tea or whatever it is, because that's where real discipleship happens. Discipleship doesn't happen in rows. It happens in conversation. [00:55:36] (36 seconds) #FaithfulNotFickle

If we will be the people of good faith and connect with people of good heart, then we will see the goodness of the kingdom of God come to fruition and we will see God at work when we join those two things together. That deserved an amen. That was good preaching. [00:56:16] (17 seconds) #PurposeStartsWithCreator

The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deepest hungers meet. Frederick Buechner. The place that God calls you is to the place where you have deep gladness and the world's deepest hunger meet. Where are we intersecting the things that are not in heaven on earth and we're getting rid of those things? That's the mission of the church. To bring up there, down here, and to serve the least, the lost, the lonely, the people who are disregarded by communities and the people who need Jesus. [01:03:48] (37 seconds) #LeanIntoYourCalling

Here's the reality. If you want to win someone to Christ, you have to be their friend. They're not your project. You have to know your gifts and strengths. God made you a 10 at something. [01:04:25] (18 seconds) #LeapOfFaithForJesus

God's plan has always included you, church. From the time, from the beginning of time, God's plan was always to walk with humanity. Go back to the garden. What did Jesus, or what did God do in the garden with his people, Adam and Eve? He walked with them in the cool of the evening. God's plan has always included you and me. It has always included humanity. [01:11:45] (33 seconds)

``What does the church need? And what is the mission and purpose of the church? It's to be people who invite others to this table. It's to be the people of God where Democrat and Republican can come to this table and there's unity. Where old and young can come to this table and there's unity. Where people who are lost can be found. And where Christians who've been doing this forever can come to this table and there's unity. [01:13:12] (35 seconds)

How do I invite people to this table where there's neither slave nor nor free Jew nor Greek male nor female there is nothing that separates us from the love of God at this table because that's who we are we're his kids and there's a seat at the table for all who will receive Jesus Christ through his blood and his body. [01:16:22] (30 seconds)

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