Nearly everybody wants to live with a purpose. Knowing what you are meant to be doing helps to make life worth living. The purpose is defined by a person’s personal preference and goals. It could be something very tangible or something that is more of an idea, inspiration, or commitment.

Some people spend a lifetime looking for their purpose. So parents should help their children learn more about finding a purpose so they can start young.

We have some activities that will help your children and you as well that explains why a purpose is important and how to discover it.

How do we find meaning?

PurposeIn the last book of the Bible, we read, “I appeal to you, therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Revelation 12:1, 2, ESV).

Finding God’s will for our lives provides the ultimate purpose and meaning for life.  According to this scripture, we must renew our minds, which may mean that we change our minds away from what the world dictates and turn toward what scripture teaches.

Why is it important to have a purpose?

Having a purpose is what drives us. We enjoy the beauty of life by having a purpose. When you teach your children about purpose, you are giving them more reasons to live, more reasons to love, and more reasons to explore and change the world.

While we also search for the answers and a purpose, we should guide our children toward finding meaning. Let us look for useful ways.

Create a Family Tree

Family TreeOne of the best ways for you to help your children find meaning is to teach them about where they came from. Where did your family originate? Who are the people in your family that have done something good?

Some people say that we do not know where we are going if we do not know where we came from. Starting with a family tree and letting your child get to know the family is a very important part of them finding meaning and purpose and carrying on family skills, traditions, and causes.

Do you have a relative who has worked hard and achieved success? Your child may be inspired by that relative and also push through certain challenges to reach a goal.

What if you do not have a big family or are not on good terms with them?  Some people may have a sad family life.  The good thing is that even if you do not have a big family or that you are not on good terms with them, you can create memories with your friends or a family you choose.

This can be another lesson that you can teach your child. When he or she sees that your friendships are built like a family, he or she will know what to look for in order to create a positive experience.

Write a statement of purpose.

If you already have a purpose that you want to achieve, you can always try to write a statement of purpose and teach your children how they can do this.

Your purpose does not need to be defined by a big dream, your purpose can be to discern the will of God.

As we have shared above, the Bible shares in the book of Revelation explains, “that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

It can be your purpose and goal to test and discern the will of God, which is an amazing part of life.

Teach your children about humility and inclusiveness.

The best way that you can find purpose is by making sure that you are inclusive by being open to anything and everyone. When teaching your child, they can realize that this approach opens up their world to possibilities.

Teach your children about strength.

One of the best ways to teach your child about purpose is by exploring their strength. Find out what they are good at and develop that in as many ways as possible.  Then share the experiences that you have gone through that helped you discover your strengths.  There may be something that surprised you and allowed you to find something that you are good at that gives you purpose and meaning.

Be an inspiration

Another good way to teach your children is to be an inspiration by pursuing your passion and following your dreams. Be the inspiration your children need. You are the best person who can help your children get excited about goals and aspirations.

Read publications that have a lasting impact

A great way to help your children find purpose is by reading books and articles about people who have had a positive impact on the lives of others.  Subscribing to a publication that inspires them to get out and explore the things around them will help broaden their horizon. Creation Illustrated (a magazine that shares about nature, life, and the teachings of the Creator) offers character-building lessons that can influence a child’s purpose.

Be a bearer of the truth

Holy Bible1 John 4:1-6 shares that when we follow biblical truth, it will influence our lives and the lives of our children in a powerful and meaningful way, “Because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever.”  This is God’s way of showing that His ways and His words provide the foundation for purpose and meaning.  Serving others is one of the great truths that give life a purpose.

We, ourselves, are testaments to the kindness and will of the Creator. The forgiveness of our sins and His eternal gift helps us demonstrate meaning and purpose so others will want the same. We should share this miracle with our children so that they can bear witness to the love of God and His desire for us to pursue purpose and meaning that follow His plan for our lives.