Maybe purpose isn’t as complicated as we think it is. Often, we’re tempted to believe that our life’s purpose must involve something extraordinary—something grand or widely recognized. But what if it’s simpler than that? What if walking in purpose is not about chasing after significance, but about remaining faithful to the simple call of obedience? What if God’s purpose is clearly laid out for us in His Word, and we only need to read it, believe it, and apply it?
Let’s dive into the book of Ephesians, where the apostle Paul gives a beautiful and foundational teaching on God’s design for our lives.
Ephesians 2:10 (NIV): “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
What Are Good Works?
As always, as Christians we look to Jesus for our example (see Hebrews 12:2, 1 Peter 2:21, Philippians 2:5). Throughout his life he was known for his good works, the perfection of which showed his true power and divinity.
Here are some examples to investigate:
- Serving others (John 13:1-17) – Jesus washing His disciples’ feet. He, the Son of God, humbled Himself to serve those around Him.
- Showing compassion and mercy (John 8:1–11) – Jesus forgives a woman caught in adultery, offering her a new path instead of condemnation.
- Helping the poor and the sick (Matthew 8:1–4) – Jesus heals the sick, touches the unclean, and brings hope to those the world had forgotten.
- Welcoming the marginalized (Luke 5:29–32) – Jesus dining with tax collectors and sinners, making it clear He came for the lost, not the self-righteous.
- Preaching the Gospel (Matthew 5–7) – Jesus lays down Kingdom truths that have transformed lives ever since.
Why Are We Created To Do Good Works?
The simple reason we often don’t do good works is this: selfishness. Reflect for a moment—how many times have you felt prompted to give, help, serve, or encourage, but pulled back? Maybe you didn’t give money because you wanted it for something else. Maybe you didn’t reach out to someone hurting because it wasn’t convenient. These choices, in essence, reveal a mindset that says, “I will use what I have for my own glory.”
But the heart of the Gospel flips this entirely. The way of Jesus is: “I will give what I have for God’s glory.” That means offering our time, talents, and treasures not just for personal gain, but for the good of others. This is what Philippians 2:1–4 describes: considering others above ourselves, imitating the humility of Christ.
A wise man once said “God is black and white on things that matter, and grey on the things that don’t.” If you are questioning, take it to God in prayer and fasting.
What About My Life Specifically?
One of the most common questions among Christians is: “How do I know what God’s specific purpose is for my life?” That’s an honest question, and it often stems from a desire to do something meaningful. However, sometimes this search for purpose is tangled up in the desire to be seen, to be recognized, to feel unique.
The truth is, your purpose may not always look glamorous—but it will always be meaningful when it aligns with God’s Word. You don’t need a title, platform, or five-year plan to walk in God’s purpose. If you’re faithfully reading Scripture, loving others, serving in your community, and listening to the Spirit’s nudges, you are walking in your God-given purpose.
God’s purpose is less about doing something big and more about doing what is faithful. The specifics of that only change in exactly who you are helping, and the community you support. The specifics of your life reveal the opportunity for your good works.
A wise man once said, “God is black and white on things that matter, and grey on the things that don’t.” If you are uncertain about what to do, take it to God in prayer and fasting. Ask Him to expose your selfishness and fill you with His Spirit so you can walk in His purpose with joy.
Do Good Works Get Me Into Heaven?
Thank the Lord that is NOT true, because nobody would make it into heaven! This is a classic example of how important Biblical context is for interpreting Scripture safely. Ephesians 2:8-9 provides a wonderful guardrail for verse 10: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
This is backed up in many other parts of Scripture, and is a pillar of the Gospel: we are saved by faith alone (see Romans 3:28, Galatians 2:16, Titus 3:5, Romans 5:1-8). All these verses make it crystal clear where our salvation comes from: faith in the work of Jesus.
It can be hard to believe that we cannot earn our way into heaven. But that is only one end of the spectrum in our fickle minds and hearts. The other hard part is to avoid abusing grace. Gratitude should spur action (James 2:17). The book of James is a helpful partner to this text. He writes clearly about the relationship between faith and works – albeit sometimes in a harsh-sounding manner – to help encourage believers not to be hypocrites (James 1:22).
James implores the readers of his letter to take application of God’s word seriously if we truly believe he saved us and empowers us through the Holy Spirit. He is an advocate for proving faith through our works, not to God (who already knows) but to those around us – both Christians and non-Christians – who need the encouragement of seeing the Gospel at work in the world.
Strive to be aware of both extremes in yourself, and not get swayed to either end. The focus is on Paul’s dual encouragement:
- We are created in God’s likeness, designed for this purpose.
- God prepared the good works in advance, for us to do.
If God has designed us to do the works, and laid them out for us, why should we disobey? Like a Michelin-star restaurant and chef, God has lovingly prepared the delicious menu, created the beautiful atmosphere, and places it in front of us at the right points in the meal. How can we do anything other than eat and enjoy?
How Do I Apply This In My Life Then?
- Think through some opportunities you might have missed in the past few weeks.
- Write down why you held back, missed the moment, or deliberately ignored the sign. What sins are these?
- Sit down with a trusted mentor/friend and discuss some potential weak spots you might have, and come up with a plan to fight that sin.
- Keep reading the Bible daily, reminding yourself of the unchanging character, endless beauty, sovereign power and selfless love of the God who has woven the whole story so far…
