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What on Earth Am I Here For?
An evangelistic booklet based on the first three chapters of The Purpose Driven Life.
59 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2004
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1999 people want to read
About the author
Rick Warren
538 books2,018 followersRichard Duane Warren is an American Baptist evangelical Christian pastor and author.He is the founder of Saddleback Church, an evangelical Baptist megachurch in Lake Forest, California. Since 2022, he is director of the Finishing the Task mission coalition.
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June 16, 2011
This is a book every living soul should have on its bookshelf either because they've read it for themselves or to-read. I saw this book everywhere but never wanted to read it. After the death of my grandparents I began to think about the meaning of life and my purpose. I bought this book at a book fair and it was like food to my soul. My only complaint is a good one it is a book that can not be read in one sitting because it takes you on a 40 day spiritual journey answering your deepest life question "What on Earth Am I here For?"
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July 31, 2020Years ago, I was gifted this book by its author, and only now have finally gotten around to reading it along with the other "self improvement" books that have been sitting on my shelf, as I finish off the positive psychology course Yale was offering for free during the pandemic.
One of the first things this book says, however, is that it is not a self-help book. It is not for self serving, but rather for serving God, and here make no mistake - this book is focused completely on Evangelical Christianity, making a secular reading largely impossible, which is the point of the book
- to make you, the reader, better able to live your life to praise and serve God. For my part, I come from a different faith background, and feel that through reading the book I understood for the first time a lot of the beliefs that Evangelicals hold. There is also no getting past the conservative and hurtful past of its author, and the (occasional but still very present) dig at "political correctness" stifling "our God-given freedom" and the like. (An extra cringe here too for backing this up with a Bill Cosby quote)
That said, I am glad to have the backing and context of the Yale class when reading this, because what I found to be interesting as that it promotes nearly the same values, in the course backed by science and study, but in a completely different wrapping. Rather than letting go, it is surrendering to God's will, the benefits of practicing gratitude, and the book even pushes meditation.
What I found to be particularly successful in this piece was its format - the book recommends reading a chapter - each with their own topic, a day, finishing each with a clean summary of an idea to remember, a bible verse, and supplemental material links - a day, and letting it sink in and thinking deeply about incorporating it in one's life. I have seen some books do this before, and think it is particularly impactful, and practicing an idea and not letting it just wash over oneself has great value.
For my own record keeping, I have shared a piece of each chapter below, some are nice wisdom, others I felt provided a window of understanding into evangelism.
Day 1: "you cannot arrive at your life's purpose by starting with a focus on yourself. You must begin with God, your creator."
Day 2: "You are not an accident." "While there are illegitimate parents, there are no illegitimate children."
Day 3: "Without a clear purpose, you will keep changing directions, jobs, relationship, churches, or other externals - hoping each change will settle the confusion or fill the emptiness in your heart...but it doesn't solve your real problem -- a lack of focus and purpose." "What did you do with your life -- all the gifts, talents, opportunities, energy, relationships, and resources God gave you? Did you spend them on yourself, or did you use them for the purposes God made you for?
Day 4: "When you live in light of eternity, your values change. You use your time and money more wisely. You place a higher premium on relationships and character instead of fame or wealth or achievements or even fun."
Day 5: "Our culture says, "If you don't own it, you won't take care of it." But Christians live by a higher standard: "Because God owns it, I must take the best care of it that I can." "Life is a test and a trust, and the more God gives you, the more responsible he expects you to be."
Day 6: "You will have happy moments here, but nothing compared with what God has planned for you...Realizing that life on earth is just a temporary assignment should radically alter your values...In God's eyes, the greatest heroes of faith are not those who achieve prosperity, success, and power in this life, but those who treats this life as a temporary assignment and serve faithfully, expecting their promised reward in eternity."
Day 7: "Living the rest of your life for the glory of God will require a change in your priorities, your schedule, your relationships, and everything else. It will sometimes mean choosing a difficult path instead of an easy one. Even Jesus struggled with this. Would he fulfill his purpose and bring glory to God, or would he shrink back and live a comfortable, self-centered life?"
Day 8: God did not need to create you, but he chose to create you for his own enjoyment...Bringing enjoyment to God, living for his pleasure, is the first purpose of your life. What you fully understand this truly, you will never again have a problem with feeling insignificant."
Day 9: "Because of Jesus' sacrifice, we don't offer animal sacrifices as Noah did. Instead we are told to offer God "the sacrifice of praise" and "the sacrifice of thanksgiving"", "God smiles when we use our abilities...Every human activity, except, sin, can be done for God's pleasure if you do it with an attitude of praise", "You may have had unpleasable teachers or parents as you were growing up. Please don't assume God feels that way about you. He knows you are incapable of being perfect or sinless"
Day 10: "Surrendering to God is not passive resignation, fatalism, or an excuse for laziness. It is not accepting the status quo. It may mean the exact opposite: sacrificing your life or suffering in order to change what needs to be changed"
Day 11: "Meditation is often misunderstood as some difficult, mysterious ritual practiced by isolated monks and mystics. But meditation is simply focused thinking - a skill anyone can learn and use anywhere."
Day 12: "Pain is the fuel of passion - it energizes us with an intensity to change that we don't normally possess"
Day 13: "If god intentionally made us all different, why should everyone be expected to love God in the same way?... Christians have used many different paths for 2,000 years to enjoy intimacy with God: being outdoors, studying, singing, reading, dancing, creating art, serving others, having solitude, enjoying fellowship, and participating in dozens of other activities."
Day 14: "Tell God exactly how you feel. Pour out your heart to God. Unload every emotion that you're feeling. God can handle your doubt, anger, fear, grief, confusion and questions"
Day 15: "Your eternal inheritance is priceless, pure, permanent, and protected. No one can take it from you; it can't be destroyed by war, a poor economy, or a natural disaster."
Day 16: "The most important lesson [God] wants you to learn on earth is how to love...Learning to love unselfishly is not an easy task." "I have been at the bedside of many people in their final moments, when they stand on the edge of eternity, and I have never heard anyone say, "Show me my awards, my medals, that gold watch I was given." What we want around us is people - people we love and have relationships with."
Day 17: "God wants you to love real people, not ideal people"
Day 18: "Authentic fellowship is not superficial, surface-level chit-chat. It is genuine, heart-to-heart, sometimes gut-level, sharing." "Of course, being authentic requires both courage and humility. It means focusing our fear of exposure, rejection, and being hurt again. Why would anyone take such a risk? Because it is the only way to grow spiritually and be emotionally healthy."
Day 19: "Whenever an issue pops up that might cause tension or discomfort, it is immediately glossed over in order to preserve a false sense of peace. Everyone knows there is a problem, but no one talks about it openly. This creates a sick environment of secrets where gossip thrives." "Real community happens when people know it is safe enough to share their doubts and fears without being judged."
Day 20: "Relationships are always worth restoring." "Peacemaking is not avoiding conflict. Running form a problem, pretending it doesn't exist, or being afraid to talk about it is actually cowardice. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, was never afraid of conflict. On occasion he provoked it for the good of everyone. Sometimes we need to avoid conflict, sometimes we need to create it, and sometimes we need to resolve it." "How to restore a relationship: Talk to God before talking to the person. Pray about the conflict instead of gossiping to a friend. Always take the initiative. It doesn't matter whether you are the offender of the offended. Sympathize with their feelings. Use your ears more than your mouth. Confess your part of the conflict. Attack the problem, not the person. Cooperate as much as possible. Emphasize reconciliation, not resolution. It is unrealistic to expect everyone to agree about everything. Reconciliation focuses on the relationship, while resolution focuses on the problem.When we focus on reconciliation, the problem loses significance and often becomes irrelevant."
Day 21: "Choose to encourage rather than criticize. It is always easier to stand on the sidelines and take shots at those who are serving than it is to get involved and make a contribution", "Refuse to listen to gossip. Gossip is passing on information when you are neither part of the problem nor part of the solution. When someone begins to gossip to you, have the courage to say, "Please stop. I don't need to know this. Have you talked directly to that person?"...During conflict, it is tempting to complain to a third party rather than courageously speak the truth in love to the person you're upset with. This makes the matter worse. Instead...go directly to the person involved. If you're unable to work things out between the two of you, the next step is to take one or two witnesses to help confirm the problem and reconcile the relationship. What should you do if the person is still stuck in stubbornness? Jesus says to take it to the church. If the person still refuses to listen after that, you should threat that person like an unbeliever."
Day 22: "The desire to be a god shows up every time we try to control our circumstances, our future, and the people around us. God doesn't want you to become a god; he wants you to become godly --taking on his values, attitudes, and character. God's ultimate goal for your life on earth is not comfort, but your character development."
Day 23:"The way you think determines the way you feel, and the way you feel, determines the way you act."
Day 24: "You haven't really studied the Bible unless you've written your thoughts down."
Day 25: "Notice that God tells us to give thanks "in all circumstances" not "for all circumstances." "Refuse to give up. Character building is a slow process...don't ask, "Why me?" Instead ask , "What do you want me to learn?"
Day 26: "God teaches us to love by putting some unlovely people around us. It takes no character to love people who are lovely and loving to you."
Day 27: Stop pretending you're perfect, and walk into freedom."
Day 28: "We are slow learners. Growth is often painful and scary. Keep a notebook or journal of lessons learned"
Day 29: "Service is the pathway to real significance. It is through ministry that we discover the meaning in our lives."
Day 30: "No individual receives all the gifts. If you had them all; you'd have no need of anyone else."
Day 31: "You are the only person on earth who can use your abilities. No one else can play your role...seriously examine what you are good at and what you are not good at." "There is no 'right' or 'wrong' temperament for ministry.
Day 32: "You will always be able to find someone who seems to be doing a better job...or you willfind someone who doesn't seem as effective and you will get full of pride.
Day 33: "No special talent or gift is required after a meeting to pick up trash or stack chairs. Anyone can be a servant. All it requires is character." "Real servants maintain a low profile. Servants on't promote or call attention to themselves...If recognized for their service, they humbly accept it but don't allow notoriety to distract them from their work."
Day 34: "[Servants] don't compare, criticize, or compete with other servants or ministries. They're too busy doing the work God has given them. Competition between God's servants is illogical for many reasons: We are all on the same team...we have been given different assignments; and we are all uniquely shaped"
Day 35: "Admit your weakness...Stop pretending to have it all together, and be honest with yourself. Instead of living in denial or making excuse, take the time to identify your personal weaknesses.", "Our weaknesses ...prevent arrogance...encourage fellowship...and most of all increase our capacity for sympathy and ministry. We are far more likely to be compassionate and considerate of the weaknesses of others."
Day 36: "This does not mean you should quit your job to become a full-time evangelist. God wants you to share the Good news where you are. As a student, mother, preschool teacher, salesman, manager, or whatever you do..."
Day 37: "Write down the major life lessons you have learned so you can share them with others." "Mature people develop the habit of extracting lessons from everyday experiences
Day 38: "You have a choice to make. You will either be a world-class Christian or a worldly Christian. Worldly Christians...Their prayers focus on their own needs, blessings, and happiness...If you want to be like Jesus, you must have a heart for the whole world."
Day 39: "Blessed are the balanced; they shall outlast everyone."
Day 40: "Life's Five Great Questions: What will be the center of my life? What will be the character of my life? What will be the contribution of my life? What will be the communication of my life? What will be the community of my life?" "Neither past nor future generations can serve God's purpose in this generation. Only we can."
Day 41: "Envy detours your life, and it always leads to a dead-end. Envy extracts a huge emotional cost without a payoff. You miss your purpose and lose your joy at the same time." "Envy denies your uniqueness. Envy divides your attention. Envy misuses your time and energy."
Day 42: "The dark side of the desire for approval is the fear of disapproval." "Remember that even God can't please everyone! At every sporting event, fans on each side pray for their team to win." "What other people think of you cannot rob you of your happiness unless you allow them to rob it. It is a fact of life that our broken planet filled with broken people, there will always be those who demean how you look, dislike what you do, disapprove of what you believe, dispute what you say, and disrespect who you are. But they cannot control your emotions unless you let them." "Instead of focusing on that unappeasable person, refocus on Jesus...only God an meet all your needs."
Overall, second paragraph's misgivings still very present, I believe this piece offers some true gems of wisdom as well as insight into evangelism. There is something comforting in the surrender and absurdness of God's love it purports, and some fascinating parallels between other schools of thought. Simply switch some words and we find the same very human lessons that seem to be a real key to feeling whole and living well on earth.
One of the first things this book says, however, is that it is not a self-help book. It is not for self serving, but rather for serving God, and here make no mistake - this book is focused completely on Evangelical Christianity, making a secular reading largely impossible, which is the point of the book
- to make you, the reader, better able to live your life to praise and serve God. For my part, I come from a different faith background, and feel that through reading the book I understood for the first time a lot of the beliefs that Evangelicals hold. There is also no getting past the conservative and hurtful past of its author, and the (occasional but still very present) dig at "political correctness" stifling "our God-given freedom" and the like. (An extra cringe here too for backing this up with a Bill Cosby quote)
That said, I am glad to have the backing and context of the Yale class when reading this, because what I found to be interesting as that it promotes nearly the same values, in the course backed by science and study, but in a completely different wrapping. Rather than letting go, it is surrendering to God's will, the benefits of practicing gratitude, and the book even pushes meditation.
What I found to be particularly successful in this piece was its format - the book recommends reading a chapter - each with their own topic, a day, finishing each with a clean summary of an idea to remember, a bible verse, and supplemental material links - a day, and letting it sink in and thinking deeply about incorporating it in one's life. I have seen some books do this before, and think it is particularly impactful, and practicing an idea and not letting it just wash over oneself has great value.
For my own record keeping, I have shared a piece of each chapter below, some are nice wisdom, others I felt provided a window of understanding into evangelism.
Day 1: "you cannot arrive at your life's purpose by starting with a focus on yourself. You must begin with God, your creator."
Day 2: "You are not an accident." "While there are illegitimate parents, there are no illegitimate children."
Day 3: "Without a clear purpose, you will keep changing directions, jobs, relationship, churches, or other externals - hoping each change will settle the confusion or fill the emptiness in your heart...but it doesn't solve your real problem -- a lack of focus and purpose." "What did you do with your life -- all the gifts, talents, opportunities, energy, relationships, and resources God gave you? Did you spend them on yourself, or did you use them for the purposes God made you for?
Day 4: "When you live in light of eternity, your values change. You use your time and money more wisely. You place a higher premium on relationships and character instead of fame or wealth or achievements or even fun."
Day 5: "Our culture says, "If you don't own it, you won't take care of it." But Christians live by a higher standard: "Because God owns it, I must take the best care of it that I can." "Life is a test and a trust, and the more God gives you, the more responsible he expects you to be."
Day 6: "You will have happy moments here, but nothing compared with what God has planned for you...Realizing that life on earth is just a temporary assignment should radically alter your values...In God's eyes, the greatest heroes of faith are not those who achieve prosperity, success, and power in this life, but those who treats this life as a temporary assignment and serve faithfully, expecting their promised reward in eternity."
Day 7: "Living the rest of your life for the glory of God will require a change in your priorities, your schedule, your relationships, and everything else. It will sometimes mean choosing a difficult path instead of an easy one. Even Jesus struggled with this. Would he fulfill his purpose and bring glory to God, or would he shrink back and live a comfortable, self-centered life?"
Day 8: God did not need to create you, but he chose to create you for his own enjoyment...Bringing enjoyment to God, living for his pleasure, is the first purpose of your life. What you fully understand this truly, you will never again have a problem with feeling insignificant."
Day 9: "Because of Jesus' sacrifice, we don't offer animal sacrifices as Noah did. Instead we are told to offer God "the sacrifice of praise" and "the sacrifice of thanksgiving"", "God smiles when we use our abilities...Every human activity, except, sin, can be done for God's pleasure if you do it with an attitude of praise", "You may have had unpleasable teachers or parents as you were growing up. Please don't assume God feels that way about you. He knows you are incapable of being perfect or sinless"
Day 10: "Surrendering to God is not passive resignation, fatalism, or an excuse for laziness. It is not accepting the status quo. It may mean the exact opposite: sacrificing your life or suffering in order to change what needs to be changed"
Day 11: "Meditation is often misunderstood as some difficult, mysterious ritual practiced by isolated monks and mystics. But meditation is simply focused thinking - a skill anyone can learn and use anywhere."
Day 12: "Pain is the fuel of passion - it energizes us with an intensity to change that we don't normally possess"
Day 13: "If god intentionally made us all different, why should everyone be expected to love God in the same way?... Christians have used many different paths for 2,000 years to enjoy intimacy with God: being outdoors, studying, singing, reading, dancing, creating art, serving others, having solitude, enjoying fellowship, and participating in dozens of other activities."
Day 14: "Tell God exactly how you feel. Pour out your heart to God. Unload every emotion that you're feeling. God can handle your doubt, anger, fear, grief, confusion and questions"
Day 15: "Your eternal inheritance is priceless, pure, permanent, and protected. No one can take it from you; it can't be destroyed by war, a poor economy, or a natural disaster."
Day 16: "The most important lesson [God] wants you to learn on earth is how to love...Learning to love unselfishly is not an easy task." "I have been at the bedside of many people in their final moments, when they stand on the edge of eternity, and I have never heard anyone say, "Show me my awards, my medals, that gold watch I was given." What we want around us is people - people we love and have relationships with."
Day 17: "God wants you to love real people, not ideal people"
Day 18: "Authentic fellowship is not superficial, surface-level chit-chat. It is genuine, heart-to-heart, sometimes gut-level, sharing." "Of course, being authentic requires both courage and humility. It means focusing our fear of exposure, rejection, and being hurt again. Why would anyone take such a risk? Because it is the only way to grow spiritually and be emotionally healthy."
Day 19: "Whenever an issue pops up that might cause tension or discomfort, it is immediately glossed over in order to preserve a false sense of peace. Everyone knows there is a problem, but no one talks about it openly. This creates a sick environment of secrets where gossip thrives." "Real community happens when people know it is safe enough to share their doubts and fears without being judged."
Day 20: "Relationships are always worth restoring." "Peacemaking is not avoiding conflict. Running form a problem, pretending it doesn't exist, or being afraid to talk about it is actually cowardice. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, was never afraid of conflict. On occasion he provoked it for the good of everyone. Sometimes we need to avoid conflict, sometimes we need to create it, and sometimes we need to resolve it." "How to restore a relationship: Talk to God before talking to the person. Pray about the conflict instead of gossiping to a friend. Always take the initiative. It doesn't matter whether you are the offender of the offended. Sympathize with their feelings. Use your ears more than your mouth. Confess your part of the conflict. Attack the problem, not the person. Cooperate as much as possible. Emphasize reconciliation, not resolution. It is unrealistic to expect everyone to agree about everything. Reconciliation focuses on the relationship, while resolution focuses on the problem.When we focus on reconciliation, the problem loses significance and often becomes irrelevant."
Day 21: "Choose to encourage rather than criticize. It is always easier to stand on the sidelines and take shots at those who are serving than it is to get involved and make a contribution", "Refuse to listen to gossip. Gossip is passing on information when you are neither part of the problem nor part of the solution. When someone begins to gossip to you, have the courage to say, "Please stop. I don't need to know this. Have you talked directly to that person?"...During conflict, it is tempting to complain to a third party rather than courageously speak the truth in love to the person you're upset with. This makes the matter worse. Instead...go directly to the person involved. If you're unable to work things out between the two of you, the next step is to take one or two witnesses to help confirm the problem and reconcile the relationship. What should you do if the person is still stuck in stubbornness? Jesus says to take it to the church. If the person still refuses to listen after that, you should threat that person like an unbeliever."
Day 22: "The desire to be a god shows up every time we try to control our circumstances, our future, and the people around us. God doesn't want you to become a god; he wants you to become godly --taking on his values, attitudes, and character. God's ultimate goal for your life on earth is not comfort, but your character development."
Day 23:"The way you think determines the way you feel, and the way you feel, determines the way you act."
Day 24: "You haven't really studied the Bible unless you've written your thoughts down."
Day 25: "Notice that God tells us to give thanks "in all circumstances" not "for all circumstances." "Refuse to give up. Character building is a slow process...don't ask, "Why me?" Instead ask , "What do you want me to learn?"
Day 26: "God teaches us to love by putting some unlovely people around us. It takes no character to love people who are lovely and loving to you."
Day 27: Stop pretending you're perfect, and walk into freedom."
Day 28: "We are slow learners. Growth is often painful and scary. Keep a notebook or journal of lessons learned"
Day 29: "Service is the pathway to real significance. It is through ministry that we discover the meaning in our lives."
Day 30: "No individual receives all the gifts. If you had them all; you'd have no need of anyone else."
Day 31: "You are the only person on earth who can use your abilities. No one else can play your role...seriously examine what you are good at and what you are not good at." "There is no 'right' or 'wrong' temperament for ministry.
Day 32: "You will always be able to find someone who seems to be doing a better job...or you willfind someone who doesn't seem as effective and you will get full of pride.
Day 33: "No special talent or gift is required after a meeting to pick up trash or stack chairs. Anyone can be a servant. All it requires is character." "Real servants maintain a low profile. Servants on't promote or call attention to themselves...If recognized for their service, they humbly accept it but don't allow notoriety to distract them from their work."
Day 34: "[Servants] don't compare, criticize, or compete with other servants or ministries. They're too busy doing the work God has given them. Competition between God's servants is illogical for many reasons: We are all on the same team...we have been given different assignments; and we are all uniquely shaped"
Day 35: "Admit your weakness...Stop pretending to have it all together, and be honest with yourself. Instead of living in denial or making excuse, take the time to identify your personal weaknesses.", "Our weaknesses ...prevent arrogance...encourage fellowship...and most of all increase our capacity for sympathy and ministry. We are far more likely to be compassionate and considerate of the weaknesses of others."
Day 36: "This does not mean you should quit your job to become a full-time evangelist. God wants you to share the Good news where you are. As a student, mother, preschool teacher, salesman, manager, or whatever you do..."
Day 37: "Write down the major life lessons you have learned so you can share them with others." "Mature people develop the habit of extracting lessons from everyday experiences
Day 38: "You have a choice to make. You will either be a world-class Christian or a worldly Christian. Worldly Christians...Their prayers focus on their own needs, blessings, and happiness...If you want to be like Jesus, you must have a heart for the whole world."
Day 39: "Blessed are the balanced; they shall outlast everyone."
Day 40: "Life's Five Great Questions: What will be the center of my life? What will be the character of my life? What will be the contribution of my life? What will be the communication of my life? What will be the community of my life?" "Neither past nor future generations can serve God's purpose in this generation. Only we can."
Day 41: "Envy detours your life, and it always leads to a dead-end. Envy extracts a huge emotional cost without a payoff. You miss your purpose and lose your joy at the same time." "Envy denies your uniqueness. Envy divides your attention. Envy misuses your time and energy."
Day 42: "The dark side of the desire for approval is the fear of disapproval." "Remember that even God can't please everyone! At every sporting event, fans on each side pray for their team to win." "What other people think of you cannot rob you of your happiness unless you allow them to rob it. It is a fact of life that our broken planet filled with broken people, there will always be those who demean how you look, dislike what you do, disapprove of what you believe, dispute what you say, and disrespect who you are. But they cannot control your emotions unless you let them." "Instead of focusing on that unappeasable person, refocus on Jesus...only God an meet all your needs."
Overall, second paragraph's misgivings still very present, I believe this piece offers some true gems of wisdom as well as insight into evangelism. There is something comforting in the surrender and absurdness of God's love it purports, and some fascinating parallels between other schools of thought. Simply switch some words and we find the same very human lessons that seem to be a real key to feeling whole and living well on earth.
January 7, 2019
I hate that the author used so many different translations because some translations are...terrible. Like 'The Message' and NIV. The Bible, KJV, is sufficient. Coming up in church we were always taught to read our bible for ourselves. So everytime is saw a quoted bible verse I compared the version he used to the KJV. It was disheartening to find that Rick Warren cherry picked translations based on the point he was trying to make.
I began reading with bias. Since Rick W. contradicted the bible once by saying it is almost impossible to go to hell (the bible was the way to destruction is broad), I listen VERY carefully to his words and take them at face value until I can align his words with The Word. (Also, encouraging ppl to preach your sermons sounds cultish).
I began reading with bias. Since Rick W. contradicted the bible once by saying it is almost impossible to go to hell (the bible was the way to destruction is broad), I listen VERY carefully to his words and take them at face value until I can align his words with The Word. (Also, encouraging ppl to preach your sermons sounds cultish).
March 27, 2018
Well presented
I chose five stars, because it just hit home for me! I am not an accident and God has purpose for my life. Worship God is a lifestyle not just in a church setting. Fellowship with those around me. Love as God loves, receive God's love and forgiveness and share his love with others. I am purposed for something that only I am to do! This earthly life is only temporary, ending of life here as I know, will begin eternity once I leave here. Earth is a rehearsal of what is to come. Without fellowship with God I am only existing not living.
I chose five stars, because it just hit home for me! I am not an accident and God has purpose for my life. Worship God is a lifestyle not just in a church setting. Fellowship with those around me. Love as God loves, receive God's love and forgiveness and share his love with others. I am purposed for something that only I am to do! This earthly life is only temporary, ending of life here as I know, will begin eternity once I leave here. Earth is a rehearsal of what is to come. Without fellowship with God I am only existing not living.
December 8, 2020
I've read this book when I was in high school but I didn't finish it. Now I found the book again and started rereading it. Although there are some ideas that I don't resonate anymore, the book has brought me back some of the answers I've been looking for all these years. I am now more comfortable that I don't just live for my purpose, but for His purpose, God's purpose.
March 16, 2015
This book should be on everyone's shelf and you should re-read it every January. I promise you will get something different out of it each time you read it.
September 7, 2018
So much great advice in the pages of this book. It is a great book to deepen your spiritual journey. I especially liked having a buddy reader to process my thoughts with as I read this one.
July 29, 2025
I first read this book when it came out in 2002 and it filled me with words of encouragement at that point in my life. This weekend I revisited this book because I felt a bit low. I never thought I would be at this point in my life and think to myself, "I have done everything I ever wanted to accomplish in my life, and I am bored."
Such reflection led me to pick up this book again and re-evaluate this point in mylife. Author Rick Warren reminds me that my time here on this earth is just a small chapter preceding my life in eternity. I don't have to completely understand or grasp the entire picture of my purpose, but I do know that I am not here on this earth to fulfill my purpose but to continue being the vessel that I am created to be and serve for God's purpose. What a great reminder for when a soul feels a bit low.
I will continue this journey filled with optimism that God will reveal the purpose for me in this next chapter and that I will be a blessing to those that come across my path. "In Him we live and move and have our being." Acts 17:28
"Whenever you feel unloved, unimportant or insecure, remember to whom you belong." Ephesians 2:19-22
Such reflection led me to pick up this book again and re-evaluate this point in mylife. Author Rick Warren reminds me that my time here on this earth is just a small chapter preceding my life in eternity. I don't have to completely understand or grasp the entire picture of my purpose, but I do know that I am not here on this earth to fulfill my purpose but to continue being the vessel that I am created to be and serve for God's purpose. What a great reminder for when a soul feels a bit low.
I will continue this journey filled with optimism that God will reveal the purpose for me in this next chapter and that I will be a blessing to those that come across my path. "In Him we live and move and have our being." Acts 17:28
"Whenever you feel unloved, unimportant or insecure, remember to whom you belong." Ephesians 2:19-22
December 5, 2021
A wonderful book. A book worth recommending to friends, families, and others. It would always be on my list to gift to someone. Day by day reading, of this book is just amazing and life transforming.
December 17, 2021
I enjoyed the book, opened my thinking and provided wonderful deep discussions with the Bible Study group I read it with. There are some opinions of Rick Warren, I feel he could of worded differently or not said at all.
October 23, 2024
lol a pastor at the airport gave this to me and i told him i would read it- all in all a good read. very much living life to prepare for the next one
October 21, 2024
Written in a “You must do this!” kind of way. Disappointing. Reflects the character of the person who gave this to me.
First few pages was quite good though and I liked the points of reflection to think of for the day. I didn’t finish this sadly.
First few pages was quite good though and I liked the points of reflection to think of for the day. I didn’t finish this sadly.
March 10, 2025
I completed as a daily devotional & really enjoyed his perspectives. Finding my purpose and honoring God is the key.
May 28, 2022
It is a good book. It has some very specific things explained. Tried to cover many things.
May 11, 2022
A simple booklet for a call. An evangelism tool for a wake up call. The content was basically the same with purpose driven life, but without verses.
May 14, 2019
Rick Warren designed this book to be read in 40 days. I enjoyed it so much, I'm now sharing it with my husband & we both feel it's well worth the reader's time.
Some of us are fortunate enough to already KNOW why we're here; others are still asking the question.
Warren's objective is to help those of us still struggling to discern exactly what we're supposed to be doing & how our focus can be more efficiently concentrated on discovering how we arrived at this point & whether or not we really do have a purpose in this Life!
Not particularly entertaining, the pages ~ every page ~ provokes the reader to internalize the questions posed by Rick Warren & utilize them as steps toward identifying what our talents are & how we can hone them & use them more efficiently while discovering the reason/purpose God has placed us here at this time!
Some of us are fortunate enough to already KNOW why we're here; others are still asking the question.
Warren's objective is to help those of us still struggling to discern exactly what we're supposed to be doing & how our focus can be more efficiently concentrated on discovering how we arrived at this point & whether or not we really do have a purpose in this Life!
Not particularly entertaining, the pages ~ every page ~ provokes the reader to internalize the questions posed by Rick Warren & utilize them as steps toward identifying what our talents are & how we can hone them & use them more efficiently while discovering the reason/purpose God has placed us here at this time!
April 5, 2021
Before you were born, God already planned your life. God longs for you to discover the life he created you to live, here on earth, and forever in eternity. You will find the answers to three of life's most important questions:
The Question of Existence: Why am I alive?
The Question of Significance: Does my life matter?
The Question of Purpose: What on earth am I here for?
Living out the purpose you were created for moves you beyond survival or success to a life of significance, the life you were meant to live.
This book is an essential resource for every person’s bookshelf. It makes a great 40 day devotional, small group Bible study, or personal study. There are discussion questions in the back of the book, or you can buy the companion study guide. There are also 25 minute videos available as well.
The Question of Existence: Why am I alive?
The Question of Significance: Does my life matter?
The Question of Purpose: What on earth am I here for?
Living out the purpose you were created for moves you beyond survival or success to a life of significance, the life you were meant to live.
This book is an essential resource for every person’s bookshelf. It makes a great 40 day devotional, small group Bible study, or personal study. There are discussion questions in the back of the book, or you can buy the companion study guide. There are also 25 minute videos available as well.
May 18, 2018
Sometimes we lost or can't seem to find where life will take or lead us, this book puts things into perspective and gives an understanding of who provides the best direction for our lives. God is that source. Only in God can you find your true purpose. Even if you don't believed in God, the life the live you should have meaning and purpose. Who is going to guide you when they themselves are lost, when they are still seeking, when their lives are still limited to thought perspective, and ideas of others. God's knowledge is limitless. So this book has done it's job. It's caused me to reflect and align my life with the will of God. It's causing me to seeking Him in everything.
October 27, 2019
This was a very interesting book. In terms of the broad picture on life, everyone wants to know what their purpose in life is. The author has given a plausible answer.
The author is a master at coming up with tweet-able sayings. He will say this pithy one-liners and you think, "that's super profound."
This book DOES make you think about things, which is what it is supposed to do. I do not need to agree with every point he made in order to recommend it as a good book for any Christian to read.
We used this as a small group study, along with the DVD, and it worked really well for OUR purpose.
The author is a master at coming up with tweet-able sayings. He will say this pithy one-liners and you think, "that's super profound."
This book DOES make you think about things, which is what it is supposed to do. I do not need to agree with every point he made in order to recommend it as a good book for any Christian to read.
We used this as a small group study, along with the DVD, and it worked really well for OUR purpose.
January 12, 2015
"When you live in light of eternity, your values change. You use your time and money more wisely. You place a higher premium on relationships and character instead of fame and wealth..."
I simply LOVED this book! Some parts were a bit redundant as the author repeated himself over and over. If you are skeptical or a non believer in God, this book is not for you. Only because there is heavy emphasis on believing in things that you cannot see = Faith! and love for God.
There is no way that one can walk away empty after reading this!
I simply LOVED this book! Some parts were a bit redundant as the author repeated himself over and over. If you are skeptical or a non believer in God, this book is not for you. Only because there is heavy emphasis on believing in things that you cannot see = Faith! and love for God.
There is no way that one can walk away empty after reading this!
December 3, 2016
What on Earth Am I Here For? challenges people to dig deeper into the Christian faith and ask questions such as, "What is the purpose of my life?", "What do I want out of my life?", and "How am I using my life right now?" This book challenged me to set goals for myself that will keep me focused on growing in knowledge and love for God. I believe there are many people who desire to know God, but get distracted along the way. I believe this book will challenge you to truly prioritize and seek Him first.
January 21, 2019
Very well written. Easy to understand and to the point.
The Title very well reflects what the book is about. In just a few pages, the author got his points across and clearly explained what we need in able to understand our purpose.
This book gives a very positive outlook of life. It provides an explanation of what life's circumstances means in terms of our purpose, that everything we go through is a test, and how we respond is what matters. With faith, one may find the way towards hope and a better, more positive way of living.
The Title very well reflects what the book is about. In just a few pages, the author got his points across and clearly explained what we need in able to understand our purpose.
This book gives a very positive outlook of life. It provides an explanation of what life's circumstances means in terms of our purpose, that everything we go through is a test, and how we respond is what matters. With faith, one may find the way towards hope and a better, more positive way of living.
October 6, 2021
I'm so glad I found this book! Its GREAT! Highly recommended to everyone! Especially younger audience trying to navigate through life, its a great start!
I literally don't know how to write a review about this book because its so good that all of it deserves a rave. But something from my own personal experience; I have been struggling with a fews things, especially in service. And this book has helped me to see things with a much wider lens and have a complete new and focused vision and walk in purpose, with God!
There are so many great lessons and wisdom in this book.
I literally don't know how to write a review about this book because its so good that all of it deserves a rave. But something from my own personal experience; I have been struggling with a fews things, especially in service. And this book has helped me to see things with a much wider lens and have a complete new and focused vision and walk in purpose, with God!
There are so many great lessons and wisdom in this book.
April 4, 2019
This was a great 42-day devotional book on purpose! This was really good about teaching me the 5 standard purposes that I have as a human being placed in the Earth and in the body of Christ. I love how he walked through each and gave scripture and examples. God created and crafted us for individual purposes but nobody ever talks about our responsibility as a member of the body of Christ. This transformed the way I look at life and how I view purpose.
May 12, 2018
This book definitely gets you thinking about your life and the purpose He has given us.
Don’t waste your gifts. Use them for the glory and good.
There were so many words of wisdom phrases that I can’t begin to write about them all or do any justice. I have 9 full pages of notes that I will reread to remember the lessons held within.
Don’t waste your gifts. Use them for the glory and good.
There were so many words of wisdom phrases that I can’t begin to write about them all or do any justice. I have 9 full pages of notes that I will reread to remember the lessons held within.
October 2, 2018
I read this as a Bible study--one chapter a day for 42 days. It is written for new Christians and experienced Christians alike--even people just learning about Jesus would benefit from reading this book. Seeks to answer the age old question: Why am I here? using God's word in its answer. I picked this up after Pat Roberston (700 Club) recommended it. I was not disappointed.
June 17, 2019
Practical book with a heavy Christian perspective, a good choice for Christians who are concerned about things happening in their world and feeling lost as to how to cope with stressful situations and pressures from the world around them. Includes a tonne of resources for readers to interact with if they require further research.
October 19, 2019
Life changing book
This book has changed my view about life and purpose of living. My life is aligned by the biblical principles illustrated and explained in this book, which explains why we exist.
This is a must read and should be in the library of every bible believing Christian.
This book has changed my view about life and purpose of living. My life is aligned by the biblical principles illustrated and explained in this book, which explains why we exist.
This is a must read and should be in the library of every bible believing Christian.
November 10, 2019
It’s tricky to rate this. 1) I did not read a chapter a day as intended. 2) I read it more out of curiosity and as an interest in learning more about Christianity. I don’t think my religious views fit 100% into the Christian box of religion, but I did enjoy reading this book and thought it was well cited throughout with actual context from the Bible.
March 26, 2020
Enjoyed Reading
Great summary version of Pastor Rick's original, The Purpose Driven Life. Gets you thinking about how you need to focus your life on what to do with your time here on Earth with an eternal purpose. A really good and fast paced read that can be completed in one sitting.
Great summary version of Pastor Rick's original, The Purpose Driven Life. Gets you thinking about how you need to focus your life on what to do with your time here on Earth with an eternal purpose. A really good and fast paced read that can be completed in one sitting.
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