Why Did God Put Me on Earth? What’s My Purpose?

By Dr.Sumeet Manakan J,

Many of us carry this lingering question deep in our hearts: “What’s my purpose on Earth?”

Especially among young people, this question often goes unanswered, leaving them feeling aimless and, at times, even depressed. Over the years, I’ve come across several teenagers, adults, and even ministers of God who have been stuck with questions like:

• What am I supposed to do?

• Which direction should I look in?

• Why don’t I see the path clearly before me?

• Why am I not satisfied with what I’m doing?

• What is God’s purpose for my life?

The answer begins with this foundational truth: God is a master designer, a divine architect, and an excellent planner.

Everything He has created bears witness to His perfection. When we observe the valleys, mountains, rivers, and lands, we see the evidence of His marvelous handiwork.

“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork.
Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge.”
— Psalm 19:1–2

God Has a Plan for You

Just as He has a plan for creation, God has a unique purpose for every human being. Let’s look at a few examples from Scripture:

• Noah was called to build the ark and preserve a righteous lineage.

• Abraham was chosen to lay the foundation of faith, foreshadowing Jesus’ sacrifice by being willing to offer his son Isaac.

• Moses was destined to deliver Israel but started out as a prince in Pharaoh’s palace—ironically oppressing the very people he would later lead to freedom.

• David began as a humble shepherd, yet he was chosen to be the king of Israel—a model of the coming reign of Christ in the Millennial Kingdom.

Each of these individuals had not just a purpose, but a GREAT PURPOSE—divinely designed and perfectly timed.

How Do You Discover Your Purpose?

Each of us is duty-bound to discover God’s purpose for our lives. This starts with introspection—pausing to reflect on your path, your work, and your inner self. Ask:

• Is my life aligned with God’s Word?

• Am I fulfilling His calling or chasing something else?

• Am I living for myself, or for His glory?

Two Great Purposes for Every Believer

The Bible outlines two core purposes that apply to every person:

1. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind.

2. Love your neighbor as yourself.

“Jesus said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’
This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’
On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”
— Matthew 22:37–40

Let’s explore these two foundational purposes further.

1. Serving the LORD

God often speaks to our hearts, gently leading us toward His purpose. Follow the inner voice—your conscience, your intuition, your spiritual awareness. When your desires align with loving and honoring God, you’re on the right track.

Finding your purpose doesn’t happen overnight. It’s like walking toward the horizon: it may seem distant at first, but with every step forward, you begin to see things more clearly.

How do you know you’ve found your purpose?
You’ll feel content, fulfilled, and deeply satisfied within.

Ways to Serve the LORD:

• Partnering with or supporting a church/ministry

• Leading a church or spiritual group

• Worshiping the Lord through songs, praise, and confession

• Living out God’s commandments and being a witness in daily life

• Pursuing intimacy with God that leads to spiritual maturity

• Praying, interceding, counseling, and discipling fellow believers

• Raising a God-centered family that reflects spiritual values

2. Serving Humanity

God has intricately organized society—musicians, craftsmen, entrepreneurs, housewives, athletes, professionals, and more. Every role, big or small, is part of His plan to serve humanity. This is one of the greatest expressions of love.

Whatever your profession or responsibility, do it with joy, gratitude, and excellence. Don’t grumble or resent your work. Remember: your job is also your ministry.

Ways to Serve Humanity:

• Approach your work as service unto God, with integrity and strong values

• Fulfill your family roles—whether as a father, mother, child, uncle, or friend—with God’s love

• Serve your community with joy, bringing peace and encouragement wherever you go

• Support charitable causes, help the poor, and care for the less privileged—these acts bring the deepest inner joy

In Conclusion

All purpose flows from two sources: Loving God and Loving People.
As you walk in these two great commandments with devotion, focus, and humility, you will grow into full maturity, influence, and recognition—not for your glory, but for God’s glory.

May you find your purpose. Amen!