Christians, what is your purpose in life?

Question

It can't be to learn things, because many of you believe that all things are explained in Heaven. It can't be to learn about God's love, because you can do that in Heaven. It can't be to learn suffering, you can learn that in Hell. It can't be to praise God, because he has angels that can do that, and that is also something you can do in Heaven. It can't be to have a family, because free-will negates the assurance that everyone you love will meet you in Heaven, and common belief is that when you get to heaven you'll have a new family and won't remember the old one (especially those that don't make it to Heaven). It can't be to spread the word about God, because you aren't born into or live in places where no one has heard of him.

So, what exactly is your purpose in life? How is it different from anyone elses? What is the purpose of being on Earth, if God can do anything in Heaven?

Please, no "God works in mysterious ways" answers. And my personal purpose in life is not the question (although I can assure you, it is purely secular and most likely something you would agree with, had you not decided my lack of belief makes me a bad person).

ekdikeo69, I'm no more mad at God than you are at Osiris. When you understand that, you'll understand atheists a little better.

lionofjudah, yes, I am happy, truly. I want you to share that happiness as well. I offer you the good news that you can live your life without irrational superstition and fear of the supernatural. It's yours for the taking, but you have to be willing to get it yourself. Free yourself from your mental slavery, and realize that the world is truly an enjoyable place once people stop trying to convince others that their deity is real while the others aren't.

MNgirl, best answer yet by far.

Ark...Ark...Arkwright, your answer is also great. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

But chavito, I never asked YOU personally. Anyway... my question is based on alternatives to the present situation. Any of the things I mentioned could be performed in another manner that would not require you to be on Earth.

Basically, I agree with MNgirl's response. Assuming that there is a god, all of the things mentioned above could be completed in infinitely shorter lifespans. I'm pretty sure there's more to life than the things mentioned.

You don't have to agree in writing, but I know that every second of your life is not spent in pursuit of the above mentioned. Instead, you're pursuing the same things I'm pursuing, you just pretend and tell yourself that you aren't.

Christian Hedonist, I've read the bible all the way through on several occasions, and if you haven't noticed, please allow me to direct your attention to the question being asked: What is your purpose in LIFE? All of the details point to the fact that none of the things I mentioned require you to be alive on Earth. Read slowly and carefully, taking your time to comprehend what is being asked to the best of your ability. Maybe call in some help if you need to. I never once mentioned the bible besides in this particular edit, so you may want to be careful about the insults you hurl. You are clearly showing a lack of reading comprehension ability, and the statement at the end of your post is surprisingly apt when applied to you.

Answer 1

Im Catholic, I dont know if thats considered Christian anymore....but ill try an answer anywho. My purpose in life is to have a purpose in life! I love exploring this awesome planet, I love diving and surfing, I love walking my dog and cuddling with her, I love cooking good dinners for my fiance because we live in sin together but it doesnt really matter cause we dont really do "it" ever lol.

To laugh, to love and to hate those whose beliefs differ from mine.

Totally kidding about that last part...


Just to add, getting to heaven, if there is one, is obviously a purpose as well. I believe in God and follow the Catholic church, therefore to get to heaven, I strive to help others in this life, not hurt anyone, be considerate, tolerant, spread joy, not fear and hate, not judge, not put others down.....

I also think Buddhists have the essence of God right. Sort of....

I also have the intelligence to recognize that a lot of high up officials in the church in their greed and own sin have ruined the true church for a very long time now.

Another purpose of mine is that if and when I have children, I can raise them with true joy in their hearts, and that they can feel real love and not chase after material things or substances to feel whole.

Answer 2

My purpose, I feel is to make a positive difference, somewhere, somehow. I have, so far, chosen to do that through my work, my children, and my property. I want to leave the world a better place because I lived. I don't feel the need to be remembered here forever(good thing, huh!) or have my name engraved in stone. I use my life as a testing ground where I have been let loose to do as I will.-- Consequences still apply(naturally). I believe we will be with those we love in the next life(I had never heard that we would not know those people we associate with in heaven-that doesn't ring true to me)

Answer 3

Why can't it be the things that you have listed?
I was created to praise, for God inhabits the praises of his people. Even if all the angels are praising in heaven, God can have more. He is God and deserves my praise and adoration.
I also believe that I will remember my family in heaven, as it says in the cloud of witnesses, cheering us on, in spiritual matters..

And of course I can spread the word of God. I have met and talked with several people that haven't heard about Jesus. A deaf friend comes to mind....

The word says, that I am a gate between heaven and this world. My purpose is to shine the Love of God. and walk according to His purpose.

Answer 4

My purpose in life is to stand out as a child of God. For others to see God through me. To see him living in me. I was put on this earth for His glory. I enjoy everything about life, my friends, my family, my job, my passion for dance and theatre. My purpose is to share with those I meet why God is necessary in this life. No one will ever break me, I am 100% a child of the Lord, He is and forever will be in my heart. He is always faithful, always loving, he never fails and He is all knowing, he is comforting and passionate, he is true, and he will never leave me. He is everything a person ever needs. He will never give you more then he knows you can handle. My purpose in life is to become more Christ like everyday.

Answer 5

My purpose in life is to worship God in all ways. Also to bring friends and family that are not walking with the Lord to know what God is about and how he will change their lives. It is also to follow His commandements and rules. My purpose in life is to love God.

Answer 6

Whatever circumstances we come across, whatever individuals we interact with, whatever talents we have...that our whole existence brings glory to God by being obedient to his will and letting God use us in ways that others will know there is a God in heaven that longs for a personal relationship with him.

Answer 7

The purpose of life is to repent and serve God. for life in mortality is yet just a probationary time.

Answer 8

To enjoy God.

Answer 9

To live and honor the Lord, giving Him all the glory. My purpose is to serve and honor Him! Tell others about His wonderful salvation in Jesus Christ, and LOVE Him with all my heart, soul, mind and strength- WHICH I DESIRE to do!
Praise be to Him!

Answer 10

wow man. you certainly have billions of people all figured out. but for me the purpose is to try to recognize people in need every day and do what i can to help them.