Movement One

Purpose Begins With God

Anchor Scripture: Romans 11:36; Ephesians 2:10; Genesis 1:27 (KJV)

Read Along

Purpose is often introduced as the answer to, What am I supposed to accomplish? Scripture begins with God. We are not inventing enough meaning to prove that our lives matter. We are responding to the One who created us and redeemed us.

Identity, purpose, gifts, calling, and assignment belong together, but they are not interchangeable. Identity answers who we are in Christ. Purpose describes what our lives are ultimately for. Gifts are entrusted capacities. Calling is God's drawing or direction. An assignment is responsibility in a particular place or season.

Assignments can change without destroying purpose. A role may end, children may grow, a ministry may close, or capacity may shift. The common thread is not always the task. It is the God we belong to and the faithfulness with which we respond.

Guided response

Invite participants to name one place where usefulness, productivity, recognition, or being needed has become connected to worth. Then complete five short statements: In Christ I am; my life belongs to; God has entrusted; I may be drawn toward; my present responsibility is.

Conversation and prayer

• Where have I felt pressure to prove that my life matters?
• Which assignment or role have I been tempted to make my entire identity?
• What changes when purpose begins with God rather than with me?

Pray for the freedom to receive identity before assignment. Participants should leave the movement relieved of the demand to identify one impressive purpose and ready to listen to God from a place of belonging.

Leader pacing

Weekend: Friday 6:35 to 7:45 PM
Weekly use: Use the first week to establish trust and define the key terms. Do not rush into gift discovery before identity and the gospel foundation are clear.