If Your Purpose Isn’t from God, It Will Fail—Here’s How to Find One That Won’t

I advise you leave these men alone for if their purpose is of human origin it will fail but if it is from God you will not be able to stop these men you will only find yourselves fighting against God Acts 5:38-39

In a world filled with distractions and uncertainty many people struggle to find their true calling. The chaos of modern life bombards us with competing voices telling us what success should look like how we should live and what we should prioritize. The pressure to conform to worldly expectations often leads to frustration emptiness and a sense of unfulfillment. Yet deep within every human soul is a longing for purpose a desire to understand why we were created and what we are meant to do with our lives. The answer to this longing can only be found in God. Acts 5:38-39 offers profound wisdom on this subject reminding us that any endeavor rooted in human ambition alone is doomed to fail while what is born of God will endure and prosper.

The scripture is a portion of the speech delivered by Gamaliel a respected Pharisee and teacher of the law who advised the Sanhedrin to be cautious in their opposition to the apostles. His argument was simple throughout history many leaders had risen claiming to have divine authority yet their movements had faded into oblivion because they were not of God. If the work of the apostles was also of human origin it too would collapse. But if their mission was truly from God no force on earth could stop it and those who opposed it would find themselves fighting against God Himself. This truth is timeless and applicable to all areas of life including our search for purpose.

Every person has a divine calling a unique assignment designed by God before the foundations of the world. However discovering and walking in this calling requires a deep relationship with God and a willingness to submit to His will. Many people spend years chasing careers possessions and status only to realize that these things do not bring lasting fulfillment. Society equates success with material wealth and worldly achievements yet the most successful people by these standards often confess to feeling empty inside. This is because human pursuits outside of God are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying.

The journey to finding one’s true calling begins with surrender. Rather than forcing our own plans and ambitions we must seek God’s direction. True fulfillment is found not in what we desire for ourselves but in what God desires for us. When we align our lives with His plan we experience a profound sense of peace and purpose that cannot be shaken by external circumstances.

The world operates on a different set of principles than the Kingdom of God. The world values power self-promotion and the pursuit of pleasure but the Kingdom of God calls for humility obedience and service. This contrast often creates tension as believers struggle to navigate their calling in a world that promotes values contrary to God’s truth. It is easy to be discouraged when following God’s calling does not align with societal norms. However Acts 5:38-39 reassures us that what is truly from God will endure and succeed no matter the opposition. When God ordains something it cannot be stopped by human effort.

Finding one’s true will from God requires patience faith and a willingness to listen. God often reveals His plans step by step rather than all at once. He calls us to trust Him even when the path is unclear. Many biblical figures experienced seasons of waiting before stepping into their divine calling. Joseph endured years of trials before becoming a ruler in Egypt. Moses spent decades in the wilderness before leading the Israelites to freedom. David was anointed king long before he ever sat on the throne. These examples remind us that God’s timing is perfect and that preparation is a necessary part of fulfilling our purpose.

The world’s chaos can make it difficult to hear God’s voice but He speaks to those who seek Him. Prayer worship and studying the Word of God are essential in discerning His will. When we spend time in His presence our desires begin to align with His. We become less concerned with worldly success and more focused on eternal impact. God’s calling is not always easy it often requires stepping out of comfort zones facing opposition and making sacrifices. But the assurance given in Acts 5:38-39 encourages us to remain steadfast. If what we are doing is truly from God no force can stand against it.

Opposition is inevitable when walking in divine purpose. The apostles faced persecution yet their work continued to flourish because it was rooted in God’s will. Similarly those who pursue God’s calling may face rejection criticism or setbacks. The enemy seeks to discourage and derail those who are advancing God’s kingdom. However no weapon formed against God’s plans will prosper. When we remain faithful and obedient God fights on our behalf. What He has established cannot be undone by man.

In times of doubt it is important to remember that God does not make mistakes. If He has called you to something He will equip you for it. Many people disqualify themselves believing they are not talented smart or worthy enough to fulfill God’s plans. Yet throughout scripture God uses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. Gideon saw himself as weak yet God called him a mighty warrior. Jeremiah felt too young yet God assured him that he was appointed as a prophet before birth. The disciples were fishermen and tax collectors yet God used them to spread the gospel to the ends of the earth. God does not call the qualified He qualifies the called.

Acts 5:38-39 is a powerful reminder that success is not determined by human effort alone but by divine authority. The world chases temporary accomplishments but true success is found in obedience to God. No matter how chaotic the world becomes those who follow God’s will remain unshaken. Their work stands the test of time because it is not built on fleeting ambition but on the eternal foundation of God’s purpose.

Those who find their calling in God discover a peace and joy that the world cannot offer. They live with a sense of direction knowing that their lives have meaning beyond material gain. They are not swayed by trends or societal expectations because they are anchored in God’s promises. When adversity comes they stand firm knowing that if their purpose is truly from God it will prevail.

The wisdom of Gamaliel still holds true today. If something is of human origin it will ultimately fail but if it is from God it cannot be stopped. Those who oppose it will find themselves fighting against God Himself. The key to finding one’s true will and calling in life is to seek God wholeheartedly trust in His plans and remain faithful even in the face of opposition. What He has purposed for your life will stand the test of time. Nothing and no one can hinder what God has ordained.

In a chaotic world filled with uncertainty and competing voices the only way to find true fulfillment is to follow God’s calling. Human efforts may lead to temporary success but lasting purpose is found only in Him. Acts 5:38-39 is a powerful encouragement to trust in God’s divine plan. If your purpose is from God it will endure it will flourish and it will accomplish all that He has intended. When you walk in His will you are walking in a purpose that cannot fail.