Understanding the purpose of our physical life on earth can be beautifully simple.
Where Did We Come From?
To understand our purpose, we must first understand where our origins. At birth we did not suddenly come into existence, we have always lived (See Job 38 vs. 4-7). There is a part of each of us that is eternal and has grown and developed until we were ready to come to earth.
Before we came to earth we lived in a premortal realm. It was there that God created us spiritually and we remained in a state of innocence and growth. In our preearth life, God gave us opportunities to advance and to grow. Eventually we became ready for the next step in our progression.
Why Are We Here On Earth?
Eventually we reached a point in which we could only further our growth by being tested in a physical world away from the immediate presence of God. Under the direction of our Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ created the earth for us ( St John 1: vs. 1-3 & 14).
In that premortal realm we were taught and instructed about the challenges we would face in this mortal life. We were taught that it would not be easy, but we understood it was necessary. God gave us freewill and we could choose freely between good and evil. This was the only way for us to progress along this eternal path.
There were some who rejected this plan so they did not come to earth to gain a physical body. This ended their progression by their own free will. Ironically these souls have dedicated their existence to fight against our Heavenly Fathers plan–and us. God did not force anyone to come into this life, just as he will not force anyone from this life to return to Heaven.
Why Don’t We Remember This Past?
Our memory of our premortal life has been temporarily shielded from us so we can freely make our choices on earth. Each of us here has the opportunity to seek God in faith and to develop our better selves–regardless of our circumstances in this life. We also have the choice of not seeking God in this life.
The Better Way
God wants us to question His existence. He also wants us to earnestly seek the meaning of our own purpose. Our Father in Heaven waits for each of us to sincerely reach out to Him in prayer. I have found that the key with prayer is ‘sincerity.’ If you want to connect with God, you must be sincere and then patiently wait for his answer. I truly believe that all who honestly seek God with pure intent will receive His guidance.
Justice and Mercy
In this life we all make mistakes and commit sins. God knew this would happen to us so He provided a Savior for us. Christ’s atonement provides the opportunity for us to receive justice and mercy.
Jesus Christ came to earth in the meridian of time, to atone for our sins. He also came to provide a perfect example of how God would like us to try and live. Unlike the Lord, we all fall short. However, all who are willing to accept Christ’s atonement, will have the opportunity to return to our Father in Heaven and thus continue on a path of eternal growth. To receive this gift, God requires that we repent of our sins and do the things he asks us to do.
This is a test of personal choice. God lets us choose who we become. However, He will not hold us guiltless if we are unrepentant.
God has given each of us strength and weaknesses. Fortunately the Lord is merciful and loving. As our creator, He looks upon us with that mercy and with pure love, but he he wants us to valiantly strive to overcome our weaknesses. With His help each of us can become better. It is important to note that we cannot work our way back to heaven, however, God expects us follow the Lord and seek to always do better.
Right and Wrong
God gave the ten commandments for a reason. They were not called the ‘ten suggestions.’ It is in our nature to be disobedient; however, disobedience and sin brings misery into our life. Those who are disobedient and sinful also cause others to suffer. For this reason, God cannot hold the disobedient blameless–unless they repent and have a mighty change of heart through Christ.
So Much More To Say
Although my description of our purpose on earth is greatly simplified, this doctrine is true. Please forgive me if I haven’t explained it very well. I sincerely invite you to ponder these things and seek a confirmation of these truths through the Holy Ghost. Please also take a moment and read what I’ve written about prayer and the Holy Ghost and may God bless you along your journey.