Inspirational Biblical Quotes On Success & Achievement

A substantial body of scripture within the Bible addresses themes of prosperity, achievement, and flourishing. These texts, often presented within narratives of individuals' journeys, offer a framework for understanding success from a religious perspective. Examples include passages detailing the triumphs of figures like Moses, David, and Esther. Success, in these accounts, isn't always measured by worldly standards but frequently intertwined with faithfulness, obedience, and service to a divine purpose.

These biblical passages hold enduring relevance for diverse communities. They frequently underscore the importance of ethical conduct and responsible action alongside the pursuit of goals. The concept of divinely ordained successor, conversely, the consequences of disobeying divine guidanceprofoundly impacts individual and collective moral decision-making. Moreover, these passages provide a historical context for understanding the diverse interpretations of success throughout the ages.

The exploration of these biblical texts related to fulfillment can serve as a foundation for exploring more nuanced topics. This might include specific theological interpretations of success, comparisons between biblical and modern perspectives on achievement, and examination of the role of faith in achieving various objectives. The ensuing discussion will delve into these areas to illuminate the broad implications of these scripture passages.

Biblical Quotes about Success

Biblical texts offer diverse perspectives on achievement, prosperity, and fulfillment. These insights, rooted in faith and ethical conduct, illuminate the multifaceted nature of success.

• Faithfulness
• Obedience
• Purpose
• Integrity
• Hardship
• Divine Guidance
• Community
• Consequences

These eight aspectsfaithfulness, obedience, and a sense of purposehighlight that biblical notions of success extend beyond material wealth. Success, in these texts, is often intertwined with moral uprightness and service to a greater good. The concept of hardship, for example, emphasizes perseverance and growth. The necessity of community, a frequent motif in biblical narratives, underscores that success can emerge from shared endeavors and support systems. Exploring these facets reveals the profound impact of biblical teachings on the meaning of fulfillment, whether perceived as worldly achievement or divine favor.

1. Faithfulness

Faithfulness, a central theme in biblical texts, often correlates significantly with success. Biblical narratives frequently portray individuals who, through unwavering faithfulness, achieve prosperity, fulfillment, and divine favor. This connection suggests a deep interdependence between devotion to divine principles and achieving a meaningful and often fruitful outcome.

• Unyielding Loyalty:
  

  The concept of unwavering loyalty to God often serves as a cornerstone for success. Characters like Abraham, who demonstrated unwavering obedience to God's commands, experienced blessings and prosperity as a consequence. This highlights that consistent faithfulness, despite challenges and uncertainties, can lead to positive outcomes. Modern parallels include individuals who maintain strong ethical values even in the face of pressure or adversity.

• Integrity and Righteous Conduct:
  

  Faithfulness often encompasses adherence to moral principles and integrity. Those who consistently act in accordance with God's teachings, often experience positive consequences. Examples like the prophets who spoke truth to power, even when facing opposition, demonstrate that unwavering integrityrooted in faithfulnesscan lead to a form of success, sometimes even in the face of apparent failure. The pursuit of truth and ethical behavior, a hallmark of faithfulness, aligns with various understandings of success.

• Perseverance in Adversity:
  

  Faithfulness often demands perseverance and resilience through hardship. The biblical accounts of individuals enduring trials and maintaining faith in God illustrate that perseverance rooted in faithfulness can lead to strength and ultimate triumph. Modern parallels include individuals who maintain their values in difficult situations, navigating through lifes challenges with fortitude.

• Seeking Divine Guidance:
  

  Faithfulness frequently involves a dedication to seeking God's guidance. The act of seeking guidance from divine sources, and acting in accordance with that guidance, often results in positive outcomes and is frequently depicted in biblical narratives, suggesting that seeking divine counsel can be a pathway to success. Modern equivalents exist in people who prioritize prayer, contemplation, or seeking wisdom from mentors as they pursue their goals.

These facets demonstrate that faithfulness, as depicted in biblical accounts, is not merely a spiritual virtue but also a significant factor in achieving various forms of successones that might incorporate material wealth, inner peace, and a feeling of purpose, reflecting on the rich complexities of this concept within the context of biblical teachings.

2. Obedience

A recurring theme in biblical texts, obedience plays a significant role in shaping the narratives of success. These narratives frequently link adherence to divine commands with positive outcomes, highlighting the potential consequences of both compliance and defiance. The concept's exploration reveals a complex interplay between human agency, divine will, and the attainment of fulfillment.

• Divine Guidance and Fulfillment:
  

  Many biblical accounts portray individuals achieving prosperity and purpose through obedience to divine instructions. Instances like Moses receiving the Ten Commandments or Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son, demonstrate how adherence to divine guidance can lead to profound blessings. This highlights the belief that following God's commands isn't simply a moral imperative but a pathway to a more comprehensive and meaningful existence. Modern parallels exist in individuals who find fulfillment through their engagement with ethical systems and values.

• Consequence and Responsibility:
  

  Conversely, narratives often depict the repercussions of disobedience. Examples such as the consequences faced by Adam and Eve or the Israelites' wandering in the desert for their transgressions, underscore the potential negative results of disregarding divine mandates. This reinforces the understanding of responsibility associated with obedience, illustrating the connection between actions, consequences, and their impact on personal and societal well-being. Contemporary application includes the understanding of accountability in professional and personal settings.

• Trust and Dependence:
  

  Obedience, within the biblical context, frequently emphasizes trust in a higher power. Individuals who demonstrate trust by obeying divine commands often receive protection, support, and guidance. This suggests that obedience can foster a profound sense of dependence on a higher power, often perceived as a source of strength and resilience in challenging circumstances. Modern parallels exist in individuals who rely on supportive communities, mentors, or their personal values during times of uncertainty or adversity.

• Growth and Transformation:
  

  Acts of obedience, as depicted in the Bible, frequently serve as catalysts for personal and spiritual growth. The journeys of individuals like David and Esther highlight how acts of obedience, often challenging and demanding, lead to profound internal transformations. This aspect signifies that obedience can be a transformative force, prompting individuals to develop crucial traits, such as humility and self-discipline, ultimately leading to an enhanced understanding of purpose and worth. Contemporary implications include the impact of discipline in achieving personal objectives and mastering new skills.

The multifaceted nature of obedience, as depicted in biblical narratives, reveals its critical role in achieving success. Whether understood as alignment with divine will, acceptance of accountability, reliance on external support, or a catalyst for personal growth, obedience stands as a significant component within the diverse and complex interpretations of prosperity and fulfillment within biblical texts.

3. Purpose

Biblical texts frequently connect success with a divinely ordained purpose. The narratives of individuals like Moses, David, and Esther often illustrate how fulfillment arises not merely from achievement, but from aligning one's actions with a higher calling. This alignment, often perceived as a divinely appointed mission, shapes their motivations, choices, and ultimately, their experiences of fulfillment.

A profound implication of this perspective is that success, in the biblical context, is not solely defined by external measures. Instead, success is intrinsically linked to the realization of a meaningful purpose, often characterized by service to others or a commitment to ethical principles. The pursuit of personal gain, divorced from a larger purpose, often fails to yield lasting satisfaction. This concept resonates with contemporary understandings of meaning and purpose, where individuals frequently seek fulfillment beyond purely material gains.

Practical application of this understanding emphasizes the importance of identifying a personal calling, aligning actions with this purpose, and recognizing the potential for significant satisfaction derived from this alignment. This can manifest in various forms, including dedicating one's life to charitable work, striving for professional excellence in a field that serves a larger good, or upholding moral values in personal and professional spheres. Examining the lives of individuals who have found deep fulfillment in service, even in the face of adversity, provides concrete examples of this principle. This profound connection between purpose and fulfillment in biblical contexts suggests a framework for navigating challenges and finding lasting satisfaction, not simply in achievements, but in the alignment of actions with a higher purpose.

Challenges in applying this concept can arise from differing interpretations of divine purpose or from the inherent difficulty in discerning one's true calling. Furthermore, external pressures and societal expectations can sometimes conflict with the pursuit of a deeply personal and meaningful purpose. Ultimately, however, the enduring message is that meaningful success, according to many interpretations of biblical texts, is inextricably bound to the fulfillment of a personal and often divinely inspired purpose.

4. Integrity

Integrity, a cornerstone of ethical conduct, frequently emerges as a vital element in biblical narratives of success. These texts often demonstrate a strong correlation between upright character and positive outcomes, highlighting that personal integrity is often intricately intertwined with divine favor and enduring fulfillment. This exploration examines specific facets of integrity within the biblical framework and their relevance to broader understandings of success.

• Uprightness and Principled Action:
  

  Biblical figures frequently demonstrate integrity by adhering to moral principles. Abraham, renowned for his unwavering faith, consistently acted in accordance with divine commands, showcasing a steadfast commitment to ethical conduct. This facet illustrates the importance of adhering to a set of moral standards and acting in accordance with these values as a path to a fulfilling and purposeful life. Contemporary examples can be found in individuals who consistently uphold their principles, even in the face of adversity. Integrity as a driving force is deeply intertwined with success, both personal and communal.

• Truthfulness and Honesty:
  

  Many biblical accounts emphasize the importance of truthfulness and honesty in achieving positive outcomes. Figures like the prophets, who spoke the truth even when unpopular, exemplify this crucial facet of integrity. This demonstrates that truthful communication, coupled with honesty in actions and intentions, often brings about positive transformations, both internally and externally, thus aligning with concepts of biblical success. Modern counterparts include individuals who prioritize ethical communication, even when facing challenging situations, recognizing the long-term benefits of authenticity.

• Accountability and Responsibility:
  

  Integrity frequently involves accepting accountability for one's actions and choices. Biblical narratives frequently portray individuals who take responsibility for their mistakes and learn from their experiences, showcasing a crucial aspect of integrity. This responsibility extends to recognizing and rectifying harm, contributing to a greater sense of justice. This facet, applicable in both ancient and modern contexts, emphasizes the link between taking ownership of one's actions and achieving genuine and lasting success.

• Consistency and Steadfastness:
  

  Integrity often necessitates consistent adherence to one's values over time. Figures in the Bible who remained steadfast in their beliefs, even when facing opposition, exemplify this crucial aspect. Their actions highlight the value of consistent conduct and its impact on building trust, both within communities and with oneself. This consistency underscores a deep connection between integrity and long-term success. Contemporary examples include individuals who maintain their ethical principles despite external pressures, fostering stability and respect.

These facets of integrity, as demonstrated in biblical accounts, underscore the connection between ethical conduct and achieving a meaningful form of success. This connection, however, transcends material gain, encompassing personal growth, community impact, and alignment with values. Integrity, in the biblical context, ultimately reflects a commitment to living a life of principle, demonstrating its enduring significance and relevance in contemporary pursuits of fulfillment.

5. Hardship

Biblical texts frequently depict success not as an absence of trials, but as a journey through them. Hardship, in these narratives, serves a crucial role, often shaping character, fostering resilience, and ultimately revealing the true nature of faith and determination. This exploration delves into how adversity figures prominently in the attainment of meaningful outcomes, according to biblical perspectives.

• Testing of Faith:
  

  Many biblical figures endured significant hardship, serving as tests of their unwavering faith. These trials, whether famine, persecution, or personal loss, demonstrate the strength of faith forged in the crucible of adversity. Joseph's experiences, for example, illustrate how overcoming hardship through steadfast devotion to God can pave the way for future success and guidance. Contemporary parallels exist in individuals facing personal or professional setbacks, who find resilience in their faith.

• Development of Character:
  

  Hardship can foster crucial character traits, such as patience, perseverance, and humility. Individuals who navigate difficult situations often emerge with a deepened understanding of their inner strengths. The biblical account of Job highlights how hardship can uncover hidden reserves of fortitude, demonstrating the transformative power of adversity in refining character and values. Modern parallels include individuals who, during periods of struggle, develop heightened resilience and appreciate life's nuances more deeply.

• Strengthening of Community Bonds:
  

  Shared hardship can strengthen communal bonds. Biblical narratives often depict communities united in overcoming common challenges. The Israelites' journey through the desert, marked by hardships and reliance on God's provision, underscores how shared adversity can foster solidarity and deepen mutual support. This principle resonates with modern instances of communities rallying together during times of crisis, demonstrating the unifying power of hardship.

• Recognition of Divine Provision:
  

  Experiences of hardship frequently lead to a deeper appreciation for divine intervention and provision. The biblical accounts of individuals relying on God during times of famine or hardship highlight the significance of faith in navigating difficult circumstances. This facet demonstrates how trials can cultivate gratitude and trust in a higher power. Contemporary parallels are apparent in individuals who, through periods of struggle, recognize the importance of reliance and seek strength in faith and support systems.

In conclusion, hardship, according to many interpretations of biblical texts, is not an obstacle to success but a catalyst for character development, faith refinement, and meaningful connection. The ability to persevere through adversity and find strength in divine guidance are recurring themes that resonate deeply with biblical narratives of success, offering valuable lessons for modern-day living.

6. Divine Guidance

Biblical texts frequently portray success as intertwined with divine guidance. This guidance, often presented as divine intervention, divine direction, or divine wisdom, is a crucial component in the narratives of flourishing individuals. The concept signifies that attainment of meaningful objectives frequently relies on aligning with a higher power's will.

The importance of divine guidance extends beyond mere passive acceptance. These texts illustrate that seeking and understanding divine guidance necessitates active engagement with a higher power's wisdom through prayer, scripture, and reflection. This active pursuit, in turn, often leads to profound personal and spiritual growth, potentially fostering resilience and wisdom in navigating challenging situations. The stories of prophets like Moses, who received direct instructions from God, or individuals like David, whose reign is often linked to divine approval, exemplify this active engagement. Ultimately, these figures demonstrate that success isn't solely about individual effort, but about a collaboration with a higher power.

Practical application of this understanding involves recognizing that pursuing success, from a biblical perspective, requires alignment with a higher purpose and the recognition that external forces frequently play an active role in shaping outcomes. Successful individuals in this framework often demonstrate a consistent pattern of seeking divine guidance in decision-making. The practical significance lies in cultivating a deeper understanding of one's place in the broader scheme of things, acknowledging that personal aspirations frequently find their fulfillment when intertwined with a greater purpose. This understanding fosters patience, acceptance, and a recognition that results may not always align perfectly with immediate expectations. Individuals who embrace divine guidance frequently develop greater resilience and demonstrate greater compassion toward themselves and others. The consistent seeking of divine guidance becomes a catalyst for navigating both personal struggles and societal challenges.

While navigating the intricacies of interpreting divine guidance can be complex, the underlying concept fosters a sense of purpose and connection to something larger than oneself. The ultimate message resonates with individuals seeking fulfillment, suggesting that lasting success, from a biblical perspective, frequently stems from collaboration between human effort and the guiding principles of a higher power.

7. Community

Biblical texts frequently emphasize the significance of community in achieving success, often defined not merely as material prosperity, but also as fulfillment and spiritual growth. Community, in these contexts, acts as a source of support, guidance, and shared responsibility, impacting individuals' journeys toward their goals and their understanding of success.

• Shared Responsibility and Support:
  

  Biblical narratives often portray individuals achieving success through collaborative efforts and mutual support within a community. The Israelites' exodus, for example, underscores the critical role of shared responsibility in overcoming hardship. Likewise, the early Christian community's emphasis on mutual aid exemplifies the importance of communal support in fostering individual and collective well-being. These examples highlight how successful outcomes often emerge from collective action and shared responsibility.

• Learning and Growth through Interaction:
  

  Communities provide environments for learning, growth, and mutual encouragement. The interactions within these groupswhether through mentorship, shared experiences, or communal worshipplay a vital role in shaping individuals' understanding of success. The concept of prophets learning from their predecessors or disciples learning from their teachers, as depicted in biblical stories, showcases the importance of collective knowledge and guidance. This aspect underscores how communities facilitate personal development and equip individuals with the tools necessary for achievement.

• Accountability and Ethical Conduct:
  

  Communities often serve as important platforms for accountability and ethical guidance. Biblical texts frequently depict the importance of adhering to community values and norms. Shared expectations and communal oversight can contribute to ensuring that individual actions align with ethical standards. The concept of a "city on a hill" suggests that communities can serve as models of virtue and influence positive change. These frameworks offer individuals within a community an inherent system of support and accountability, potentially leading to outcomes viewed favorably within the biblical framework of success.

• Shared Purpose and Meaning:
  

  Biblical communities frequently share a common purpose, often rooted in faith and a common vision for a better future. The unifying force of this shared purpose fosters a sense of belonging and motivates individuals toward collective goals. The early Christian community's commitment to spreading the gospel exemplifies how a shared purpose can drive collective action and provide a framework for individual success within a larger context. This emphasizes the potential of community to instill a sense of purpose and meaning, which significantly influences individuals' experiences of fulfillment.

In summary, community is not merely a backdrop to success in biblical narratives but an active agent shaping personal and collective flourishing. By highlighting the importance of shared responsibility, learning, accountability, and purpose, biblical texts underscore the indispensable role of community in achieving meaningful and divinely-aligned success. These elements demonstrate that meaningful success often emerges from within the context of a strong and supportive community.

8. Consequences

Biblical texts frequently depict success not as an isolated phenomenon but as interwoven with consequences. These consequences, both positive and negative, serve as a crucial element in shaping the narratives of individuals and communities. The concept emphasizes a direct link between actions, choices, and their resulting impact. Positive consequences are often associated with obedience and righteous living, while negative consequences frequently follow disobedience and transgression. This intricate connection underscores that success, within the biblical framework, is not solely about achievement but also about the ethical implications of one's choices and actions.

The importance of consequences extends beyond immediate outcomes. Biblical narratives often explore the long-term effects of choices. For instance, the story of Adam and Eve highlights the consequences of disobedience, which impacted not only themselves but also subsequent generations. Similarly, the Israelites' journey through the desert, marked by both blessings and punishments, illustrates the impact of collective choices on a community. These examples demonstrate that actions have far-reaching effects, shaping destinies across time and impacting both individuals and societies. The concept also highlights that decisions, whether perceived as successes or failures, invariably produce consequences. Understanding these consequences, in turn, can inform future decisions and guide individuals towards more thoughtful choices. In essence, understanding the importance of consequences offers a framework for making responsible decisions, recognizing potential outcomes, and mitigating negative repercussions.

Practical application of this understanding emphasizes the necessity of considering the full spectrum of potential consequences before making choices. This necessitates a deeper level of introspection and a broader perspective that extends beyond immediate gratification. Recognizing the long-term impact of actions, whether positive or negative, fosters a more responsible approach to life. Individuals who consider the implications of their choices, incorporating ethical considerations, are more likely to navigate life's challenges effectively and achieve long-term fulfillment. This underscores that true success, according to a significant interpretation of biblical teachings, is not merely about achieving individual objectives, but also about the wider impact of one's actions and the consequences they generate.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses common questions and concerns regarding the concept of success as presented in biblical texts. Answers are based on interpretations and analyses of these passages.

Question 1: Does the Bible equate success solely with material wealth?

Answer 1: No. Biblical texts portray success in multifaceted ways. While prosperity can sometimes be a result of righteous living, the focus frequently shifts to other aspects, such as faithfulness, obedience to divine guidance, and serving a greater purpose. The emphasis is often on internal fulfillment, a virtuous character, and positive impact on one's community, rather than solely on material accumulation.

Question 2: If the Bible doesn't equate success solely with wealth, what are the key characteristics of biblical success?

Answer 2: Key characteristics of biblical success include integrity, obedience to divine principles, and a sense of purpose often linked to serving others or a higher calling. Successful individuals in these narratives frequently demonstrate unwavering faith, resilience in the face of adversity, and a commitment to ethical conduct.

Question 3: How does hardship figure into the concept of success in the Bible?

Answer 3: Hardship often serves as a catalyst for growth and development within biblical narratives. Trials and challenges can refine character, strengthen faith, and deepen understanding of divine purpose. Success, therefore, can emerge from navigating and overcoming difficult circumstances.

Question 4: What is the role of community in biblical success?

Answer 4: Community plays a vital role. Shared responsibility, support, and mutual encouragement contribute to individual and collective growth and fulfillment, aligning with biblical depictions of successful lives.

Question 5: How does divine guidance impact interpretations of success?

Answer 5: Divine guidance is often a crucial element. Success in biblical contexts frequently entails aligning one's actions with perceived divine will, recognizing that success is not solely dependent on individual effort but involves collaboration with a higher power.

Question 6: What are the consequences of choices in relation to biblical success?

Answer 6: Actions have repercussions. Biblical accounts often highlight the long-term consequences of choices, both positive and negative. Success, thus, is not only about achievement but also about the ethical implications of one's choices and actions, recognizing potential outcomes and consequences.

These FAQs provide a basic overview of how biblical texts present the concept of success. The multifaceted nature of this concept warrants further exploration, acknowledging diverse interpretations and applications.

The subsequent section will delve deeper into specific biblical narratives and characters to illustrate these themes in greater detail.

Tips Derived from Biblical Quotes on Success

This section offers practical guidance based on principles gleaned from biblical passages associated with success. These insights, grounded in faith and ethical conduct, can provide a framework for navigating life's challenges and pursuing fulfillment.

Tip 1: Cultivate Faith and Trust in Divine Guidance. Numerous biblical accounts underscore the importance of faith and reliance on divine direction. Individuals who seek God's guidance through prayer, study of scripture, and reflection often find clarity and strength in pursuing their goals. This involves acknowledging a higher power, surrendering control in certain situations, and recognizing that success may not always follow a predetermined path. Consider individuals like Moses, who relied on God's directives to lead the Israelites, or figures like Esther, whose actions align with a divinely ordained plan.

Tip 2: Prioritize Ethical Conduct and Integrity. Biblical texts consistently associate righteous living with positive outcomes. Individuals guided by strong moral principles and integrity tend to navigate challenges more effectively and experience greater personal fulfillment. This involves honesty, accountability, and a commitment to justice, mirroring figures such as the prophets, who spoke truth to power, despite adversity. Ethical choices ultimately contribute to long-term success and avoid potential negative consequences.

Tip 3: Embrace Perseverance Through Hardship. Biblical narratives frequently depict individuals who face significant challenges and emerge stronger through perseverance. Recognizing hardship as an opportunity for growth and development fosters resilience and character refinement. Reflect on figures such as Job, whose faith was tested through immense suffering, or the Israelites' enduring faith during their journey through the desert. These individuals' strength and determination underscore the value of enduring adversity.

Tip 4: Seek Fulfillment Through a Higher Purpose. Biblical accounts highlight the importance of aligning actions with a greater purpose. Identifying and pursuing a calling that transcends self-interest contributes to a deeper sense of fulfillment. Examples include individuals like David, whose reign was intertwined with a divinely appointed mission, or the disciples, who dedicated their lives to spreading the message of faith. A sense of higher purpose provides a foundation for enduring motivation and satisfaction.

Tip 5: Value Community and Collaboration. Biblical narratives frequently emphasize the significance of community support. Collaborative efforts and shared responsibility are often crucial for achieving success. Recognize the importance of mentorship, support networks, and shared goals, echoing the Israelites' shared journey or the early Christian community's mutual aid. Building strong relationships and leveraging collective strengths can amplify individual and collective outcomes.

Tip 6: Recognize the Consequences of Actions. Biblical texts frequently illustrate the repercussions of both positive and negative choices. Considering the full spectrum of potential consequences, both immediate and long-term, fosters more responsible decision-making. The stories of both those who followed God's will and those who deviated from it illustrate how actions have far-reaching effects. This understanding is essential for making choices that lead to meaningful and enduring success.

These tips, derived from biblical teachings on success, offer a practical approach for navigating life's complexities and pursuing a life of fulfillment. These principles underscore the importance of faith, integrity, resilience, purpose, community, and accountability in the pursuit of meaningful outcomes.

The following sections will explore these principles further through specific biblical examples and contemporary applications.

Conclusion

This exploration of biblical quotes about success reveals a multifaceted understanding of achievement. The concept transcends mere material prosperity, emphasizing instead the importance of faithfulness, obedience, and alignment with a higher purpose. Key themes include the transformative power of hardship, the significance of ethical conduct, and the crucial role of community in fostering individual and collective flourishing. The recurring motif of divine guidance highlights the belief that true success is often a collaborative effort between human agency and a divine source. These biblical narratives, across various interpretations, provide a framework for navigating life's complexities, emphasizing the importance of integrity, perseverance, and a commitment to service. A critical takeaway is the profound connection between personal conduct and the ultimate outcomes one experiences.

The enduring relevance of these biblical perspectives on success lies in their capacity to offer enduring guidance for navigating contemporary challenges. The principles of faith, ethical action, and community-building remain vital tools for individual and societal growth. Reflection on these principles encourages critical self-examination and encourages a search for a deeper purpose beyond material wealth. Ultimately, the exploration underscores that true success, as depicted in biblical texts, encompasses more than worldly achievement, encompassing spiritual growth, meaningful relationships, and a profound sense of purpose.