The question of the meaning of life may be asked in many ways, such as Why are we here? or Does my life have a purpose? We all realize that there is more to life than just our daily routine. And it really doesn’t matter who you are, or whether you are a Christian or not. I’ve known stay-at-home parents, corporate executives, and retirees who felt that something was missing in life. The challenge is that the world and the Bible offer competing visions of how to find the meaning you are searching for.

We’re all searching for meaning from life.

But how do you find it?

Five ways to find greater meaning in your life:

• Seek God’s Face. This is Competition Number One. This is THE competition that the world hopes to win. The world would have you find your purpose in careers, activities, and possessions. God, however, created you for a higher purpose: you have been created to be in relationship with him. That’s it. Once you understand that, then you understand that being a doctor or farmer, full-time parent or social-media influencer, or whatever else you might choose to do is not your purpose. That is simply a function of how you get to your purpose: Knowing God and making him known.

“Draw near to God and he will draw near to you.” (ESV, James 4:8, 2:23)

• Volunteer and spend more time with others. This is Competition Number Two. The world wants you to focus on yourself. Are you feeling stressed or unfulfilled? The world says some “Retail Therapy” or “Me” time will fix you up. God says put your attention on others. It just feels good to help others and make a difference in someone else’s life. As you see God in others you will feel better and your life will feel more meaningful. Find a cause that you find highly meaningful and give it your all. People can add meaning to life. Joining a church or becoming more active in your existing church family is a great way to find like-minded people you can partner with to accomplish these goals.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (ESV, Philippians 2:3-4)

• Live by your values. I’ve previously written about this. When your values and life choices don’t match you will feel stressed and unfulfilled. The little things we do add up to cause a values disconnect. Go through your house, your checkbook, your social circle and activities. If it conflicts with your values, let it go.

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (ESV, Micah 6:8)

• What brings you joy? The more time you spend on things that bring you joy, the more meaningful your life will feel to you. Make a list of the things that you enjoy and schedule more of those activities into your life. It’s okay to have something for yourself – just be sure to invite God to participate, and then let your joy propel you back out into the world.

“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” (ESV, Proverbs 17:22)

• Be grateful. Nothing feels quite like gratefulness. It’s a warm, calming feeling. Spend a few minutes each day and make a list of everything that makes you feel grateful. Try to identify at least one new thing each day.

“For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever.” (ESV, Romans 11:36)

You are a beloved child of God, created for a purpose. Finding a deeper meaning in life begins by simply accepting that fact. You are unique and special. God is the potter and you are the clay. God has a plan for you as an individual member of the body of Christ. You are a masterpiece.

You don’t have to save the world to find deeper meaning in your life. Notice the contributions that you’re already making. Seek God’s face and together you will create a life with meaning that is also full of joy, happiness, and fulfillment.

Love,

Opa