Purpose that sustains

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. – PHILIPPIANS 1:21

Austrian psychiatrist Viktor Frankl was imprisoned by the Nazis during the Holocaust. Once set free, he wrote Man’s Search For Meaning, which became a perennial bestseller. In it, Frankl shared an all-important lesson he had learned from his suffering: "There is nothing in the world, I venture to say, that would so effectively help one to survive even the worst conditions as the knowledge that there is a meaning in one’s life."

The apostle Paul also underwent repeated suffering (2 CORINTHIANS 11:23-27). He certainly had a purpose that sustained him. He told the leaders of the Ephesian church, "Now I go bound in the spirit to Jerusalem, not knowing the things that will happen to me there, except that the Holy Spirit testifies in every city, saying that chains and tribulations await me. But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God" (ACTS 20:22-24).

We too have a purpose and a task – God has called us to bear witness of the Savior. We may not suffer as Paul did, but we can find in our faith a meaning that helps us walk steadfastly through life’s toughest experiences. – VERNON GROUNDS

I shall not fear the battle

If Thou art by my side,

Nor wander from the pathway

If Thou wilt be my guide. – BODE

READ: 2 CORINTHIANS 11:21-29

Knowing God gives meaning to life;

obeying God gives purpose to life.