Created For God’s Purpose
LENT DEVOTIONAL 2026 | DAY 3
Luke 1:57–80 (NIV)
By Koh Geok Cheng, Chairperson, Wesley Glowing Years Ministry
READ:
Luke 1:57–80 (NIV)
The birth of John the Baptist was not a random event but a part of God’s redemptive plan. Every detail—from his conception to his name and his calling—was divinely appointed.
Zechariah and Elizabeth were well advanced in years, yet God, in His mercy, enabled them to conceive. John’s birth itself was a sign of God’s power and faithfulness.
God also chose John’s name. Although traditionally a son is named after his father, both Zechariah and Elizabeth insisted on the name “John,” the name God had given. This act of obedience affirmed their trust in God’s purposes.
John’s calling was clear and prophetic. Through Zechariah’s proclamation, we saw John being appointed to prepare the way for Jesus. His mission was to guide people toward repentance, to announce God’s forgiveness, and to point them to the salvation that would come through Jesus. John’s life was never meant to draw attention to himself but to direct hearts toward Jesus.
This passage reminds me that God creates each of us with intention and purpose. Just as John was born for a specific assignment, I, too, have been shaped by God for roles that unfold across different seasons of my life. Roles may change, but the calling remains the same—to point others to Christ and His gift of salvation.
In my current season, as I serve in the Wesley Glowing Years Ministry, I am reminded that ministry is not about my abilities, achievements, or receiving affirmation. It is about God’s glory. I am His instrument, used by Him for His work among the seniors. My role is to help them grow in faith, to encourage them, and be a blessing—not to draw attention to myself but to direct their hearts toward Jesus.
This reflection encourages me to stay humble, focused, and obedient. God has placed me where I am for a purpose, and He will continue to guide me as I seek His will.
I will:
1. Stay focused on God and continually seek His will.
2. Discern God’s calling and purpose for each season of my life.
3. Trust and obey God’s leading so that my life points others to Jesus.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for creating me uniquely and placing me where I am for a purpose. Just as You called John to prepare the way for Jesus, help me to faithfully point others to Jesus in the roles and seasons of my life. Keep my heart humble, my focus on You, and my steps aligned with Your will. Use me as Your vessel to bless and encourage those You place in my path. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
[ Reflection Questions ]
1. John the Baptist was conceived, named and called for a purpose that God planned for him. How will you discern God’s calling and purpose for you in your current season of life?
2. How have you experienced God calling you to do something different from what you would normally do? How did you obey and trust God and what was the outcome?
3. How can you point people to Jesus in your home, work, community and ministry?
