Lesson 123: My Soul’s Purpose

Kentucky Chaplain David Chaltas

“You are not your own, for you are purchased with a price.” Have you ever considered your destiny? Have you ever wondered what will my life be like in ten years or will I even be alive? Will I have made a difference? What is my soul’s purpose in life?

I asked several of my colleagues to give me their definition and concept of ‘my soul’s purpose’ and I was intrigued by their answers. My dear friend Colonel Parsons stated his response via the following manner:

“My Purpose is to be an Inspiration to someone every day, not for selfish reasons such as self glorification but as an example of kindness and humility. To wake up every day, to try to make myself a better person in my walk through life and to witness to others not only my mistakes, but how my mistakes were forgiven. Maybe my actions through my trials will make me a better person and be a good example to others. To relate to others how all things are possible through faith, that the riches in life can come in many ways and not always just monetary. That through true dedication of the things you believe and say are not only words but also a path you walk everyday.

“My Destiny: I truly believe that my destiny is to wake up each day with awe of the wonderful things that are prepared for me. To not just look at the world outside my door but also to take time to really see the beauty in the things that surround me. The trees and flowers, the birds and to experience the small things I am sometimes too busy to notice. I believe my destiny is to grow each day emotionally as well as spiritually and to not only learn but also to share with others the things I have learned along the way. To be a light for others and a listener to those who need an ear to hear their cries, and hopefully be a friend to those who reach out. My destiny is to walk beside those in need and be a beacon for those who need a light along the path of life. These are all things I personally believe in and in some way I hope you are able to use some of them.”

Another friend stated that she “Just did a study that taught me that my soul purpose here on earth is to worship God. That’s why he put me here. It’s all about HIM not me.” So worshipping God is big component of the soul’s purpose. Susan stated, “I believe my purpose is to serve others, young and old alike...to be a smile to someone who otherwise may not get one…to spread kindness, gentleness and truth wherever I am and have always since childhood felt I was to love others MORE than myself...though this is contrary to God's word. I believe it is my purpose because God knows the heart He gave me and that I am happiest when I put others first. My destiny is to be all that God wants me to be in order to make it home...to be in sync with Him where ever I go and to live my life so that when I leave people can say ‘she really loved Christ and did His will’.... How do I know? I listen very carefully...the older I get the closer I listen and more I look in depth at His will...and I do believe it is in accordance to God's will and I seek it so earnestly.... if it weren't ...He would steer me down a different road....

It is my belief that in order to help others, one must first help oneself and in order to do that, he must find peace. You can’t give it away if you don’t have it! That peace is found through worshipping the Morning Star, The Rose of Sharon, and the Alpha and Omega, known as Christ Jesus, the Son of God. The soul purpose of life is to have life in great abundance and to share that peace that can never be fully understood but only felt through faith as you walk with your Creator. Finding that soul’s purpose and to be able to radiate positive thoughts, positive attitude, positive goals and demonstrating that joy will strengthen you when the adversities of life befall you. And they will befall you. But it is during such times that your soul’s purpose shines. Sometimes our soul’s purpose takes us outside the comfort zone. When people see us as a follower of Christ, rejoicing and accepting ‘God’s will’ in our adversities, then they are more willing to follow.

There are those in which we can model after; Christ being the supreme example. The disciplines and Paul are provided in the Bible as examples. These were men of great character and faith. General Jackson was a very devout Christian but was known to not agree with his fellow generals. There were even ill feelings on the part of other generals because of his sternness. One evening General Jackson and General Ewell were discussing some issues and the discussion led to a heated argument. Ewell stormed out of Jackson’s tent and, having forgotten something, reentered to find Jackson on his knees praying. Overcome by Jackson’s piety, Ewell exclaimed, “If this is religion, I must have it.”

So what is the soul’s purpose? Is it not to perpetuate peace, understanding, love, joy, patience, tolerance, sacrifice, self denial, living by the golden rule, and the good news of the gospel? Is not humbleness of spirit also a virtue of the soul’s purpose? By living a life that is an example to others, future generations can have a model in which to emulate. And let us not forget our great commission as part of our soul’s purpose. What greater joy is there than to lead someone to Christ!

So let us embrace life on life’s terms. Let us strive to follow the One and Only. Worship with a grand gratitude for existence. Let us go into the world with the Armour of Salvation, humbly seeking forgiveness for our sins and praying for guidance in our ministry to others. Such is the kingdom of God. Follow the Way, the Truth and the Light. Remember, when you eyes are upon the Son, you will not fear the shadows. With sacred principles to maintain, I remain your obedient servant in Christ, The Old General