How To Discover Your Purpose and Calling In Christ.

Why am I here?
What does God want me to do?
What am I supposed to do with the gifts He’s given me?
Have you ever asked yourself these questions?

I have.
Over and over and over again—until one day, it all became crystal clear.

Finding your purpose in Christ doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be a lifelong struggle or a tormenting decision. For years, I believed it did. I wrestled with these questions, pouring over every Scripture, listening to countless sermons, and crying out to God in desperation: “Why did You put me on this earth?”

Have you been there too?
Are you wondering if you even have a purpose or if you’re destined for something meaningful?
I want you to know that you do. You are created for a purpose, and God has a calling on your life.

Today, my friend, I want to share with you a simple approach to discovering your purpose and calling in Christ Jesus. It’s not complicated, and it doesn’t require years of searching. It’s about aligning your heart with His and uncovering the unique path He’s prepared just for you.

Let’s dive in together.

 
 
  • When I was five years old, my love for the piano began. My aunt gifted us a baby grand piano, and from morning to evening, I would sit at it, plucking out melodies and immersing myself in the sounds. My parents noticed my enthusiasm and, by the time I was five, they enrolled me in piano lessons.

  • When I was twelve, I found my way to Summer Stock theater. Every summer, from ages 12 to 18, I performed in musicals and plays. I fell in love with the camaraderie, the music, the dancing, and the thrill of being on stage.

  • At sixteen, I began singing in choir and taking music classes at school. Competitions, concerts, and learning to harmonize ignited a new passion within me.

  • In college, I pursued Music Education, studying piano and voice. One of the highlights of that time was singing at Carnegie Hall. I thrived in my studies and earned my degree, building a strong foundation for a life steeped in music.

  • At nineteen, I began leading worship at my church, a ministry I carried forward well into my 30s. Worshiping God through music and song has been one of the greatest joys of my life.

  • After college, I taught music in public schools for ten years. My hope is that I planted seeds of love for music and the arts in the hearts of my students.

  • Then, at 33, after the birth of my son, I started a non-profit community theater. Its mission is simple: to foster community through education, music, and theater.


Do you see the pattern?

Nowhere in this quick snapshot of my life will you find, “I fell in love with numbers and became an accountant.” Or, “I adored helping people with their appearance, so I became a cosmetologist.” Or, “I had a gift for biology, so I became a nurse.”

Everything I’ve ever loved—everything that has shaped me—has revolved around music and the arts. And yet, for so many years, I struggled to understand my purpose.

It wasn’t until one day, when I was sitting in a church service, that everything changed. The preacher shared a sermon that quieted my fears and brought clarity to my heart. He asked two simple but profound questions.

I’d like to share those questions with you today.


Question #1 in Finding Your Purpose and Calling:
What Do You Love To Do? 

This may seem like a simple question, but don’t overlook its power.
What do you genuinely love to do? What lights you up inside? What activities, hobbies, or tasks make time seem to fly by?

When I finally stopped to reflect on this question, the answer was clear: music and the arts. From the moment my little fingers first touched the piano keys, I was captivated. Performing on stage, singing in choirs, teaching music, leading worship—these weren’t just things I enjoyed; they were things I loved.

God often weaves purpose into the things we’re passionate about.
He created you with unique gifts, talents, and desires for a reason. “
The things you love are not random; they’re clues pointing you toward your calling.

So, take a moment to think about it:

  • What are the activities or pursuits that make you come alive?

  • What do you naturally gravitate toward when given the choice?

  • What have you loved doing since childhood?

Write those things down. Reflect on them. Pray about them. Your purpose may not look like someone else’s, and that’s okay—because God has designed something specific and beautiful just for you.


Question #2 in Finding Your Purpose and Calling:
How Can What You Love To Do Help Someone Else?

Once you’ve identified what you love to do, the next step is to ask yourself: How can this make a difference in someone else’s life?

God didn’t give you your passions and talents just for your own enjoyment—He gave them to you as a way to bless others, to glorify Him, and to bring His love to the world around you.

When I discovered my love for music and the arts, I realized it wasn’t just about what I loved, but how I could use that love to serve others. Leading worship became a way to draw people into God’s presence. Teaching music allowed me to inspire a love for the arts in my students. Starting a community theater gave me an opportunity to share joy, connection, and hope with my community.

Here’s the key: Purpose often lies at the intersection of your passion and someone else’s need.

Ask yourself:

  • How can my gifts meet the needs of those around me?

  • What opportunities do I have to use what I love to serve others?

  • How can my passions reflect God’s love and truth to the world?


I Answered the Questions. Now what?

So, you’ve reflected, prayed, and answered the big questions.

Here are four practical steps to help you move forward:

  • Pray and Seek the Lord

Once you’ve identified your gifts and passions, take them to God in prayer. Ask Him to reveal His purpose for your life clearly and to convict your heart if you’ve misunderstood or missed the mark. Seek His guidance and trust Him to confirm His calling for you. Remember, He delights in directing the steps of those who seek Him.

  • Get Moving

When you sense God leading you toward a purpose, don’t wait—get started! Don’t wait for the perfect moment or the perfect opportunity. Don’t let fear or doubt paralyze you. Even if you’re not 100% sure, start moving forward in faith. God sees your willingness and obedience, and He will guide your steps as you go. Often, clarity comes through action.

  • Find a Mentor

Throughout my life, God has blessed me with incredible mentors—people like my first piano teacher, Miss Gloria, and my first theater teacher, Mr. D’Antoni. These men and women helped shape me into who I am today. They offered wisdom, guidance, and encouragement at every stage of my journey. I urge you to find a mentor or spiritual guide—someone who can walk alongside you, challenge you, and help you grow in your calling.

  • Don’t Grow Weary in Well-Doing

Starting something new is exhilarating, but as with all things, the initial excitement can fade. Challenges will come: criticism, closed doors, and even moments of discouragement. When negative words are spoken, don’t grow weary. When doors close, trust that they’re not the ones God wanted you to walk through. When people frustrate you (and they will!), don’t give up. Instead, press on. Keep your eyes fixed on Jesus and remember Paul’s encouragement: “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:14).


Discovering and living out your purpose isn’t a one-time event—it’s a journey. Trust that God will equip you every step of the way. Be faithful, be courageous, and watch how He works through your life to bless others and glorify His name.


Erika Bain

ERIKA BAIN is a writer, teacher, and musician living in Jacksonville, NC. When she’s not writing at A Symphony of Praise, she directs her non-profit community theater and sings, acts, and tells stories with her family.

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