Purpose and calling are areas of curiosity for every individual. Whether you are a Christian or not, I am sure that at one point or another, you have wondered what your purpose in life is. Cynthia Heald expertly tackles this topic in Becoming a Woman of Purpose.
Despite being originally released in 1994, her book continues to be sold in many bookstores today. This is because of the fact that Cynthia Heald discusses a timely topic for every individual in every generation.
Cynthia Heald answers hard questions with intellect and kindness
Becoming a Woman of Purpose comes with 11 beautifully written and insightful chapters that guide the reader in a journey of self-discovery. It features theological insights that answer the many questions people struggle with when discovering their life purpose, such as “Why do bad things happen in the world?” or “What if I don’t have the skills?”
Each chapter has a specific theme and various scripture to support the topic. Heald also includes quotes from many theologians that help contextualize the scripture and make it more applicable to our lives.
Afterwards, she asks questions that help us process the text. Be assured that while reading it, Cynthia Heald holds an encouraging, gentle tone—imparting to the readers like ourselves that our questions are valid and there are answers to them.
You are not alone in your struggle for purpose
One of the aspects I find most helpful about the book is the quotes. Seeing all these great theologians struggle with the same things I do, and gaining wisdom from their insights have helped me tremendously!
Who would have thought that these great people of faith also struggled like I did?
How the book helped me
Prior to reading, I was coming from a place of spiritual restlessness. I was struggling with my purpose and the questions I had regarding it—why did it have to be so difficult? Why are my struggles necessary? I would confide with my friends but would only be met with disappointing answers that made me stray further away from God!
Stumbling across Cynthia Heald’s book was definitely then, a God speaking to me moment. Through the quotations, scripture, and reflections that were featured, many of my qualms and questions were answered, and now I feel truly energized to pursue God’s purpose for my life.
The search for purpose doesn’t need to be complicated
Cynthia Heald began with the basics, which helped set the mood—that is, we as a Christian people are meant to reflect His glory. She states so beautifully in the first chapter:
“My heart’s desire is to be so overwhelmed with our incomparable, awesome God that my life cannot help but bring Him glory.”
Cynthia Heald
How beautiful it is that the great big God who made the universe desires people like us to bring Him glory!
Another quote that really helped me was in Chapter 3:
“In Christ, every event in our personal history takes on fresh perspective, for the Cross assures us of God’s endless love.”
Lawrence O. Richards
Coming from a place where I doubted God’s plans and God’s love, that singular quote reassured me of the fact that every event in my life—from past to future—is encompassed by God’s love.
This is what readers said about the book “Becoming a Woman of Purpose”
Many people also share similar testimonies to how insightful and brilliant this book is. Some reviews from Amazon include:
“This Bible study was just amazing!! It gave me a much better understanding of God’s purpose for His creation of people, as well, as What His purpose of me is [sic]. I enjoyed digging deep into God’s word to really find the answers my heart desired… [Cynthia Heald’s] insight and personal experiences are very encouraging to me as a single mom of two girls who is doing my best to train them in the Lord’s way. I highly recommend this Bible Study to all and every woman looking to discover her purpose, as well as, God’s purpose!!”
Melissa
“A small group I was in did this as a summer study. It’s small enough to where the homework is not overwhelming, yet Cynthia Heald packs a lot of weight in these studies. Doctrinally sound and challenging, good for the mind and heart… It’s great for smaller groups or to use individually. They’re also very personable and not overly technical, so if you have new believers or women who don’t have time for an in depth “heavy” study, [Becoming a Woman of Purpose] is perfect. You can’t go wrong with her studies, highly recommend [sic]. Can’t wait till summer to do another one with the gals!“
Rebecca Risk
As you can see, the book is perfect for every woman of every generation regardless of their stage in life. From single mothers, to group studies, to individual devotions—this book has been tremendously helpful for many.
God is with you in your quest for purpose—the book makes sure of that
The journey of discovering your purpose is one that continues for as long as you continue to dwell in God and ask Him to work in you continuously. Cynthia Heald’s Becoming a Woman of Purpose offers the opportunity to guide you through that seemingly scary journey by providing relevant theological insights, and constantly reminding you of God’s love and grace in your life.
Allow me to end with a quote from Cynthia Heald herself:
“How encouraging to know that this life ultimately is part of God’s accomplishing His eternal good pleasure.”
Cynthia Heald
