What is the Meaning of Life?

The age old question...

Alright, so here we go. Let’s tackle the big question today – what is the meaning of life? Spoiler alert: it's not happiness, that's a choice. If you’ve ever sat at a coffee shop with an overly deep cup of coffee and stared out the window pondering this, you’re not alone.

We've all had that “What am I even doing here?” moment while scrolling through Instagram or trying to figure out what we’re doing with our life at 2 a.m. with the fridge wide open. You know the feeling. You stare at your life and wonder, “Is this really it? Is there more to this?”

But guess what? The answer isn’t found in a self-help book or a motivational YouTube video by a guy with a shiny suit and a Lamborghini. No, no. The meaning of life is actually in the Bible, and spoiler alert – it’s not about you. I know, shocking, right? Life isn’t all about our self-actualization, finding our "truth," or getting that perfect Instagram selfie with a sunset in the background.

The first clue about the meaning of life comes from Jesus Himself. In Matthew 22:37-39, He tells us the two greatest commandments: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And love your neighbor as yourself." That’s it. Pretty simple, right? Loving God and loving others. If you ever find yourself thinking, “I’m trying to figure out life and why I’m here,” it’s about love, people – loving God and loving the people around you. That’s the meaning of life.

Now, before you go, “But what about my dreams, my aspirations, my career, and my selfie game?” Let me explain. Your dreams are important, sure, but the foundation of life isn’t found in chasing those dreams for you – it’s found in how those dreams serve others. And no, I’m not talking about serving others like holding the door open for someone at Starbucks (although that’s nice, too). I mean serving them in a way that points them toward Jesus, the One who gives us eternal life. It’s about being a living reflection of God’s love so that others can see Him in you and be drawn closer to Him.

Life is Not Your Time Spent on Earth

You've heard the saying "life is short" but that couldn't be farther from the truth. Here’s the twist – this life isn’t just about this life, life is eternal. This life on Earth is just a blip on the radar in the scope of eternity. As Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, God has “set eternity in the human heart.” In other words, we’re designed for forever. Everything we do on Earth, every relationship, every moment of service, and every time we point someone toward Christ is part of something that will last way beyond our time here.

And this is where it gets really interesting. The Bible talks about eternal life like it’s already started. John 17:3 says, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” So, eternal life isn’t just a future thing – it’s something that begins right now, when you choose to follow Jesus.

Think of it this way: Imagine life as a huge road trip. The drive is long, there are some bumps in the road, and sometimes you’re just trying to get to the next exit. But the destination isn’t just the scenic viewpoint – it’s the road that gets you there. And while you’re cruising down this road, God’s got a few pit stops for you to make along the way – places where you can help people, serve people, love people. But don’t forget – you’re driving to eternity. This road trip doesn’t end when you reach your destination here on Earth. Nope, there’s a whole new road once you cross that finish line, and it’s eternal.

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of why serving others is part of the meaning of life. In Mark 10:45, Jesus said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus didn’t come to Earth to just relax in a comfy chair with some snacks and a Netflix subscription. He came to serve. He came to lay down His life. And if we’re going to follow Jesus, we’re called to do the same – to serve others, to give our time, talents, and yes, even our comfy chairs for the good of others and to further God’s kingdom.

Here’s a fun little thought: When you focus on serving others, you actually find purpose. It’s like a paradox – you find your purpose by losing yourself. Life isn’t all about your success or your comfort; it’s about pouring into others. When you’re willing to step outside your own little world and help someone else, your life starts to feel bigger, more meaningful. So, get out there and serve – even if it’s just by buying someone’s coffee behind you in line. It’s these little moments of selflessness that reflect the heart of Christ.

Now, let’s talk about the seriousness of eternal life. I know, we love our time on Earth. The sunsets are pretty, tacos are great, and Netflix really knows how to keep us glued to the screen. But eternity? That’s a whole different level. The Bible says in Matthew 25:46, “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.” That’s heavy stuff.

Eternal life is not just about the good stuff in the next life – it’s about being with Jesus forever, in peace and joy. And the opposite? Well, let’s just say we want no part of that.

So What is The Meaning of Life?

In conclusion, the meaning of life, according to the Bible, is to love God, love others, and serve. It's not about building your empire on Earth; it's about storing up treasures in Heaven. It’s about finding your purpose through selfless love and doing what you can to bring others into the family of God. Because when you live with eternity in mind, everything else starts to make sense.

And when you start serving, helping, and living with purpose, you’ll realize the most fulfilling thing in life isn’t a bigger house or a fancier car – it’s that knowing you’re making a difference in someone’s eternity. So go out there today, and don’t just live for yourself. Live for others, live for God, and watch as your life truly begins to mean something.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for showing us that the meaning of life is so much bigger than what we often make it. Thank You for the reminder that we’re here to love You, love others, and serve Your kingdom. Help us to live with eternity in mind, to reflect Your love in every step we take, and to remember that our purpose is found in giving, not just in receiving. Guide us as we make a difference in the lives of those around us, and help us to keep our eyes on the road to eternal life with You.

Lord, give us the strength and the desire to live for others, to serve with joy, and to fulfill the purpose You’ve given us. And when we start to get distracted by the things of this world, remind us that our true treasure is in heaven, and our true calling is to bring as many as we can with us.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen!