What should I do with my life?

At some point in time we ask ourselves this question. Nobody wants their life to be wasted but often we don't know how to live up to our potential or find our purpose. We can also question if we can even do anything worthwhile.

However, we were created to do more than float through life. We were made to make a difference and fulfill what God has called us to do.

You might be looking at yourself and thinking, "There's no way I can do anything. I'm just your average Joe. How can I make a difference?"

Guess what? You're just the person God wants to use.

If we take a look at the Bible, God often used the "nobody" that stayed in the background, someone who wasn't anyone's first choice, to accomplish His plan.

Usually when we hear "great things" we envision rescuing thousands of children from poverty, becoming a missionary, or starting a new charity. While these are applaudable feats, they're not the only things Christians are called to do. Sometimes doing great things means being a good friend, supporting a mom, or starting a Bible study.

No matter what God's purpose for us is, it's important and has the power to change something in the world or overturn the effects of sin and evil.

Our lives aren't meant to be meaningless and dull. When God created us, He had a plan in mind for us and our lives, meaning we all have a specific purpose to fulfill in this life. We might associate finding our purpose with graduates or young adults. But the truth is, you don't have to be a certain age to fulfill or find a purpose. God can use you in the circumstances you're in right now to do great things for Him, the world, and His people.

What does the Bible have to say about all this? While the word "purpose" doesn't show up in the pages of Scripture, the principle does. Take a look at the examples below.

"'I am the Lord, I have called You in righteousness, I will also hold You by the hand and watch over You, and I will appoint You as a covenant to the people, as a light to the nations." Isaiah 42:6, NASB.

"But now, this is what the Lord says, He who is your Creator, Jacob, and He who formed you, Israel: 'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!'" Isaiah 43:1, NASB.

"Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Lord. There are varieties of effects, but the same God who works all things in all persons. But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good."  1 Corinthians 12:4-7, NASB.

"Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called .... There is one body and one Spirit, just as you also were called in one hope of your calling." Ephesians 4:1 and 4, NASB.

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." 1 Peter 2:9, NASB.

God has called each of us to do something specific in life, in order to change the world, minister to others, and bring Him glory.

But how do we find our purpose in life? How do we discover what God wants us to do with our lives? God doesn't make it impossible for us to find our purpose. However, we do have to take time to discover it for ourselves.

But how?

God has given several indicators in our life to show us what we're supposed to do with our life in order to serve Him. Whenever we feel the call to do more with our life in order to change the world for Him, we should immediately seek His wisdom and ask Him to reveal His will for us.

Then, as you are seeking Him, begin to investigate the areas below.

"Talents?" you may ask. "Who? Me? I can't do anything!"

Nonsense. Everyone has something they're good at. It may seem small, but nothing is small in God's eyes; everything and everyone has a purpose in His kingdom.

Make a list of things you do well. This can be anything from cooking to teaching to painting to horses and everything in between. If you're stuck, ask a friend or family member; they may think of something you haven't even thought of.

Also write down what you enjoy doing. Often what you like to do is what God wants you to use for Him. Do you like to sew? Consider making items for charity or starting a business selling what you make. Do you love cooking? Maybe you can host people at your house or take meals over to those recovering from surgery. The possibilities are endless; don't discount any of them.

Everyone has a topic or issue that captivates them. What are you passionate about? It can be anything from animals to missions to poverty. Our passions drive us and show us what we think is important. It also shows us where we might be able to serve God and others.

Do you have a heart for a particular group of people? Teens? Single moms? Pastors? In what way do you want to serve them? Think of different ways to minister to them, keeping in mind what you're good at and what you're passionate about.

After you go through everything above, let yourself dream without considering limitations or obstacles. Forget about money, people, safety, responsibilities, current situation - whatever is blocking you from going after your dream, forget about it. What do you see yourself doing? Are you teaching? Learning? Encouraging?

After you've imagined for awhile, jot down what's on your mind. Include details such as where you were, who you were with, what you were doing, who you were helping, etc. Once you've got it all down, take it to God and saturate it in more prayer. Keep this vision nearby and remind yourself of it constantly.

Finding our purpose in life takes time, but it's worth it. No matter where you're at in life, you have the potential to touch someone's life in powerful ways. A purpose filled life is not impossible because we have a God who crafted a special purpose for each of us.

How can you start discovering your purpose today?