Why Am I Here? God’s Good Plan For Us

Titus 1:1-5, 10

Titus, a Gentile Christian, was placed in difficult ministry roles, yet God used him to advance His work despite opposition and struggles. Through this, we learn that our placement in life is not by accident but by divine purpose. Titus was a Gentile believer who became one of the Apostle Paul’s trusted companions in ministry. Unlike Timothy, who had a Jewish background, Titus was not circumcised, which became a point of contention among early Christians. Paul defended Titus’s position as an uncircumcised believer, emphasizing that salvation comes through faith in Christ alone, not by following Jewish customs. Titus played a significant role in Paul’s missionary efforts, often being sent to resolve difficult church conflicts. He was entrusted with ministerial responsibilities, including overseeing the church in Crete, where he faced resistance from the “circumcision party,” a group that insisted on the necessity of circumcision for Gentile believers. Paul’s letter to Titus provided guidance on leading the church. We can learn five main points about God’s intentions and plans for us from this passage in Titus.

1. God Has a Good Plan for Us

Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that God’s plans are for our welfare and not for harm. Even when we experience suffering or situations beyond our expectations, we must trust that God is preparing everything for our good. Titus faced difficulties ministering among Jewish Christians who insisted on circumcision, yet God placed him there for a reason. Similarly, our struggles are not random but are part of God's intentional plan to shape us. Even in suffering, we are assured that God’s plan is ultimately for our good, and He is always with us.

2. God Entrusts Us with Responsibilities

Titus was chosen by Paul for challenging tasks, proving that God places His people in positions of responsibility because He trusts them. 1 Timothy 1:12 highlights how being assigned to difficult tasks is an honor, not a burden. Instead of complaining, we should embrace these responsibilities with gratitude. When we are entrusted with difficult assignments, it is because God sees our potential and trusts that we can fulfill His purpose. Rather than viewing challenges as obstacles, we should consider them divine appointments. Titus handled the financial collection for churches, proving his reliability. Likewise, we should strive to be faithful in the roles God has given us.

3. God Wants Us to Rely on Him

Difficult situations are opportunities to deepen our dependence on God. 2 Corinthians 1:8-10 teaches that hardships remind us to trust in God rather than our own strength. When we find ourselves asking, "What am I doing here?" we should see it as a call to lean on God’s guidance and provision. When we face uncertainty and frustration, our natural response may be to question why we are in a particular place or situation. However, these are moments designed to strengthen our faith and reliance on God. Without challenges, we might lean too heavily on our own abilities instead of seeking God in prayer and obedience.

4. God Challenges Us to Help Us Grow

Romans 5:3-5 explains that suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope. God allows difficulties so that we may grow in faith and maturity. Through trials, we develop endurance and a strong character, equipping us for greater purpose and future blessings. Growth does not happen in comfort; it happens in adversity. The story of Titus shows us that God places us in difficult roles not to harm us, but to build us up. Through trials, we become more resilient and better equipped to serve in God’s kingdom. Instead of resisting hardships, we should embrace them as tools for spiritual growth.

5. God Uses Our Experiences to Comfort Others

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 emphasizes that our struggles equip us to minister to others. Personal hardships prepare us to offer comfort and encouragement to those facing similar trials. Our experiences are not in vain; they serve as tools for helping others through their own journeys. When we suffer, it is not just about us—it is also about how God can use our experiences to uplift others. Just as Paul and Titus ministered to struggling churches, we are called to support others who are going through difficulties. God transforms our pain into purpose, using our lives as testimonies of His faithfulness.

When we face moments of doubt and wonder why we are in a particular place or situation, we must shift our perspective. God’s plan is always good, even if we don’t understand it at the moment. He places us where we are for a purpose: to trust Him, grow in faith, and serve others. By embracing God’s plan with faith, we can find peace and assurance in His divine wisdom and love. Instead of resisting where we are, we should recognize that God has specifically placed us in our current circumstances to fulfill His will. As we trust in Him, He will guide and equip us for every good work He has prepared for us. By understanding these truths, we can embrace our calling and live confidently in God’s good plan for our lives.

Reflection: A lot of my thoughts have revolved around planning for the future. “When is my next promotion?" When will I get married? When will I have saved X amount? At first glance, these questions are harmless. But the more I spent time thinking about the future, I realized that it could become detrimental to my relationship with God. God has a plan for me and I should trust in Him. By understanding His good intentions, I can be more conscious of the ways God works in my life. When I am assigned a task, I can serve God with a joyful heart, knowing He has entrusted me. When challenges and struggles come my way, I can be reminded of how God uses these times to spur spiritual growth. From experiencing hardship and struggle, God is preparing me to be a comfort to others who may be going through the same thing. God has placed me here for a clear purpose and He invites me to be used for His kingdom. I hope to lay down my agenda and let Him lead.

Discussion Questions:

• Have you ever found yourself asking, "What am I doing here?" How did you answer yourself?

• In what ways has God entrusted you with responsibilities that seemed difficult at first?

• Any takeaways from the sermon message?