The Road to Meaning: Day Five
Find Sermon Video HERE
Day 5: Living with Eternal Purpose
Devotional
In a culture that often views children as inconveniences that hinder personal freedom and success, Psalm 127 offers a radically different perspective: "Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward." This isn't just about biological children. It's about understanding that relationships—whether with our biological children, spiritual children, or brothers and sisters in Christ—are among God's greatest gifts. They're not distractions from what matters; they are what matters. Solomon uses a powerful metaphor, comparing children to arrows. "Arrows don't stay in the quiver. They are prepared. They're aimed, they're launched." This imagery reminds us that relationships aren't just for our comfort or fulfillment. They're meant to be invested in with purpose, prepared with intention, and launched with mission. This perspective transforms how we view our daily investments in others. The time spent mentoring a younger colleague, the energy poured into raising children, the love shared within a church family—these aren't distractions from "real work." They're eternal investments that will long outlast careers, achievements, and possessions. Johnny Cash's reflection near the end of his life is sobering: despite fame, wealth, and acclaim, it all felt like "an empire of dirt." That's the inevitable end of a life built without the Lord—empty, anxious, and meaningless. But when we build with God at the center—when we value what He values and invest in what truly lasts—we create a legacy of eternal significance. Today, embrace the relationships God has given you. Invest in them with purpose. And trust that as you do, God is building something through you that will never be in vain.
And when Esau lifted up his eyes and saw the women and children, he said, “Who are these with you?”
Jacob said, “The children whom God has graciously given your servant.”
- Genesis 33:5
Reflection Question
What relationships has God placed in your life that you need to invest in more intentionally as part of your eternal purpose?
“Your children are a blessing because when they grow up and you get older, they've got your back.
You've got people who've got your back. In the city gate, you won't be taken advantage of.
You've got your people.”
- Pastor Mike Mura
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the relationships You've placed in my life. Help me to see them as You do—not as interruptions but as divine appointments. Give me wisdom to invest in others with eternal purpose. Renew my strength when I grow weary in well-doing. And help me to build a life that values what truly matters to You. May I stop striving, trust deeply, and live with purpose under Your watchful care.