Purpose Over Pleasure: Embracing the Greater Goal

By Franklin Omolaja

“He that loves pleasure will be a poor man.” – Proverbs 21:17

In today’s world, pleasure is often presented as the highest ideal. We’re constantly surrounded by messages urging us to indulge, unwind, and embrace comfort. But if we’re honest with ourselves, we know there’s more to life than fleeting pleasures. Deep down, we recognize that our existence is not meant to be a series of temporary comforts. While enjoyment has its place, our lives carry a higher calling rooted in purpose.

As human beings, we must come to understand that the essence of our existence is beyond the pursuit of comfort alone. We each have a unique purpose, a reason we’re here, something larger than ourselves. Often, we fall into pleasure-seeking as a way to distract ourselves from pain, boredom, or the discomfort of facing hard truths. While this is a natural response to life’s challenges, relying on pleasure as a tool to numb ourselves will ultimately lead to self-destruction. It’s a temporary fix that doesn’t heal the wounds it covers.

The Bible wisely speaks of time and purpose: “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). When we grasp the significance of time, we learn not to waste it on superficial pursuits. Pleasure may keep us in our comfort zones, but growth—true, meaningful growth—demands discomfort. It requires us to stretch beyond what feels easy or entertaining. Growth is what pushes us toward our goals, and those goals are what drive us toward our purpose.

The truth we must embrace is that comfort, while alluring, should never become our resting place until we’ve reached our goal. Our purpose lies at the heart of our existence. Without purpose, we wander aimlessly, filling our lives with things that may entertain us but never satisfy us. Purpose is what enables us to set meaningful goals, and each goal accomplished brings us closer to that higher calling. Instead of asking, “What can I do for fun?” it may be time to ask, “What is my purpose?” Once we figure that out, life begins to make sense. We can set goals, work toward them, and, yes, reward ourselves when those goals are reached.

There’s a saying, “Suffer now, enjoy later.” This isn’t just a motivational catchphrase; it’s a principle of perseverance. Nothing truly worthwhile comes easily. Every great achievement requires sacrifice. For every dream to flourish, a price must be paid. If we look at history, the proof is undeniable. To build a nation free from corruption, people have to fight and sacrifice. Freedom fighters risk their lives, endure prison, and even face death for the greater good of their country. Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison but emerged to lead his country. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X gave their lives to pave the way toward equality. And the greatest example of sacrifice is Jesus Christ, who gave His life for the salvation of humanity (John 3:16). These acts are proof that true purpose requires sacrifice.

Enjoyment has its place in life; it’s a gift we should appreciate. Ecclesiastes 8:15 says, “So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun.” We’re encouraged to find joy in our labor, to enjoy the fruit of our hard work. But the verse makes it clear: it’s about finding joy in the labor. True joy is rooted in a life of purpose.

In our journey toward purpose, we may find ourselves surrounded by people who are content with pleasure alone while we walk a path toward something deeper. Unfortunately, not everyone will reach their purpose. It’s essential to find a circle of friends and mentors who encourage us in our mission. “Iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17) reminds us that our relationships influence our journey. If you’re in a relationship, be it a friendship or a marriage, and you can find common ground on pleasure, you can also find common ground on purpose. And if it feels like you can’t, pray for God’s guidance. “Two cannot walk together unless they agree” (Amos 3:3). Agreement on purpose strengthens your path, making it one of meaning rather than mere comfort.

In the end, pleasure is good, but purpose is greater. Pleasure is fleeting, but purpose is timeless. We’re called to enjoy life, but to balance it with the mission that drives us. Enjoy the moments of laughter, celebrate achievements, and cherish those around you. But remember, real fulfillment lies not in avoiding the hard work, but in embracing it. Let your purpose guide you—because only then will your life shine, not just for a moment, but for eternity.