What’s your purpose in life?
It’s a question that feels big—definitely too big for little hearts still learning to tie shoes and hold crayons. But the answer, in some ways, is beautifully simple: we were made to glorify God.
Why Purpose Matters
How does knowing one’s purpose help? According to Faithward.org, understanding what the Bible says about purpose does three things:
- It declares why we exist—to live a life made possible by Jesus.
- It defines our lives by God’s character, not our ever-changing emotions or achievements.
- It clarifies what doesn’t change, even when life is messy and unpredictable.
That’s a foundation I want my child to stand on.
Purpose for a Child
But how do we help a toddler or preschooler begin to grasp something as big as “purpose”?
It’s won’t happen through lectures or reading books they can’t understand. But through simple, daily moments of modeling and providing opportunities of purpose.
Here are five ways simple ideas for providing purpose in your home:
1. Give Meaningful Chores
A child needs serve others. Even small jobs—feeding the dog, folding washcloths, wiping the table—teach that life isn’t just about “me.” Chores help a child feel capable and essential to the family team. Read or Listen: How Chores Can Help Reduce Child Anxiety
2. Refuse to Raise a Brat (With Love)
Purpose and entitlement can’t grow in the same space. We set loving boundaries, say “no” when needed, and help the child learn that life isn’t always about getting what is wanted. It’s about loving others, obeying God, and growing in wisdom. And yes, that sometimes means holding the line through tears and tantrums. Read or Listen: Are you Raising Selfish Kids?
3. Speak Truth About Who the Child Is
Use phrases like, “God made you to be a helper,” “You are growing to be strong and kind,” or “You are a child of God, and He has a plan for you.” A child may not fully understand the weight of these words, but they settle into the heart over time. Read or Listen: How to Speak God’s Truth over a Child’s Life
4. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
When the child tries something hard, talk about how we’re always learning. “You’re learning to obey with a happy heart.” “That was hard to share, but you did it.” Small celebrations of growth teach that every effort matters in God’s eyes. Read: Help! My Child is a Perfectionist
5. Read and Memorize Scripture Together
God’s Word anchors us in what never changes. Verses like Psalm 139:14 (I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made – NIV) or Jeremiah 29:11 help a child begin to understand: God made me, loves me, and has a plan for me. Read: Gratitude Bible Verses to Memorize
These basic ideas won’t cause the child to walk away with a full theology of purpose. But every dish dried, every tantrum guided with grace, every truth spoken into their little heart… it’s a seed. A seed that, over time, will grow into a strong, rooted life of purpose.
Countdown to Christmas
Guide children to know Jesus through the Christmas story with this 41-page Advent Workbook, designed for ages 3–12. Filled with fun activities, learning, and a Christmas countdown, it’s perfect for starting December 1st—or any day that fits your schedule. This downloadable guide walks you through daily activities that explore the wonderful characteristics of Jesus. Get it today and make your Christmas countdown meaningful.
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