“He has saved us and called us to a holy life–not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time . . .” (2 Timothy 1:9 NIV)
Two words stand out to me in this passage: purpose and grace. Notice we were recipients of God’s grace before time began. We didn’t do anything to prove ourselves to God. We weren’t yet born. Adam wasn’t yet created. In fact, the universe wasn’t even created yet. So, before God said, “Let there be light,” He had already decided to shine the light of His grace into our hearts (2Cor. 4:6). Then when God said, “Let there be light,” time began. And, at the right time, God saved us and called us to a holy life. Why?
The word “holy” means “set apart” for a purpose. For what purpose are we set apart? God’s purpose – the purpose He had settled in His mind before creating the world and beginning time. It was for this purpose He decided to create the universe – and you.
You have a purpose within God’s purpose. That is why He saved you and called you to a holy life – a life of purpose. It is also why He decided before time began to give you His grace in Christ Jesus. You need His grace to fulfill your purpose. Fulfilling your purpose is a piece within God’s ultimate purpose.
How do you fulfill your purpose? You live a holy life. A holy life is simply a life dedicated to God.
You don’t have to try to figure out what your purpose is. You don’t have to spend countless hours searching for why you were put here on this earth. You simply dedicate yourself, your plans, your actions and activities, in short, your life, to God. He will reveal YOUR purpose to you as He is fulfilling HIS purpose through you by His grace working IN you (Ps. 25:12; Pr. 16:3, 9; Eph. 2:8-10). In doing so, you will glorify Him who by His grace and for His purpose saved you and called you to a holy life.
© Paul R Downing
