Finding Purpose Beyond the Checklist

We are into week two of our series, "MORE." Last week, we reflected on a powerful message inspired by

He must increase, I must decrease.

John 3:30

It was a reminder that in our walk with Christ, we need more of God in our lives and less of ourselves. But what does that really look like? It goes beyond checking off boxes of religious duties and moves into a deeper understanding of our purpose in God's kingdom.

The Checklist Mentality: Are We Missing the Point?

Point 1: Made for More Than Worry

Point 2: Called for More

The world tells us we can be anything we want, and success is measured by how much we have—more money, more status, more things. But scripture tells us something different. Ephesians 1:18-21 reminds us that we are called for more than what this world offers. We are called to know God more deeply, to walk in His incomparably great power.

As Christians, we often fall into the trap of focusing on our shortcomings—our lack of purity or our failure to live up to certain standards. But remember, God calls us to more, not in our own strength but through the power of the Holy Spirit. This is kingdom power, greater than any authority on earth. And we are called to use that power to love others, to stand boldly for truth, and to share the hope we have in Christ.

Fearful or Faithful:

There’s a growing tendency in our culture to shy away from sharing the gospel. We don’t want to offend anyone, so we stay quiet. We’ve convinced ourselves that it’s more loving to let people live as they wish rather than confront them with the truth. But the gospel is inherently counter-cultural. The world says we can identify as anything we want, but scripture says our true identity is found in Christ alone.

It’s not about beating people over the head with the Bible. It's about loving them enough to speak the truth in love. When someone is hurting or going through a crisis, don’t shy away from offering to pray for them. Don’t hesitate to share that the God who created the universe loves them and knows them by name. We are called to be bold in our faith, but in a way that reflects Christ's love and grace.

Conclusion: We Are Made for More

We are called to step out of fear and into boldness. We are made for more than checking off a spiritual to-do list, more than worrying about things we can't control, and more than hiding our faith in fear of offending others. God has a greater purpose for us—to be a light in the world, to share His love, and to live lives that reflect the power and hope of the gospel.

Let our heartbeat be for more of God in our lives, for we are made to reach those searching for peace, hope, and joy. It’s only through the power of God that we will see more people come to know Him.