The quote above illustrates the multiple meanings of the word PURPOSE: the reason for which something is done, created, or for which something exists; a person's sense of resolve or determination; or a particular requirement or consideration, typically one that is temporary or restricted in scope or extent. The mountain metaphor reveals the tenacity of the climber who has decided to pursue making it to the top. It shows the particular boundaries and limits that must be navigated for the raison d'être, (French: reason for being) of both the mountain and the climber to be fulfilled. Along the journey, the adventurer might experience muscle strain, loss of oxygen because of altitude, fatigue, and a variety of emotions. Depending on the difficulty of the climb, there could be moments they'd want to quit before finishing. We don't always consider that even pain has a purpose—it often pushes us beyond our perceived limits.
PURPOSE acts in our lives like a compass; it directs us. But, as Dr. Myles Monroe used to say, "If you don't know the purpose of a thing, abuse is inevitable." In Scripture, Daniel was a young man brought to Babylon after Jerusalem fell under siege. The best and brightest of Israel's youth were chosen to work in Nebuchadnezzar, the king's court, including Daniel and three other Hebrew boys: Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. They were taught Babylonian customs. Their names were changed, and they were offered the custodial nation's food.
8But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
Daniel knew who he was purposed to be and held to that identity. He decided to maintain the kosher lifestyle of his people and disregard the palace fare. He was willing to put everything on the line to retain his integrity. He boldly said,
12“Please test your servants for ten days, and let them give us vegetables to eat and water to drink. 13Then let our appearance be examined before you, and the appearance of the young men who eat the portion of the king’s delicacies; and as you see fit, so deal with your servants.” 14So he consented with them in this matter, and tested them ten days. 15And at the end of ten days their features appeared better and fatter in flesh than all the young men who ate the portion of the king’s delicacies. 16Thus the steward took away their portion of delicacies and the wine that they were to drink, and gave them vegetables. 17As for these four young men, God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams."
God had a purpose for the exile. Though they were immigrants in captivity, Daniel and his companions were purposed to be key leaders in Babylon. Purpose is not always found in a call to ministry, sometimes it's in the marketplace. The motive for Daniel's dietary request had a purpose. Even the subsequent test had purpose. Have you considered or asked the LORD, "What is MY purpose?" (reason for being) or "What is YOUR purpose for what is going on in my life right now?" Often, the purpose is to make us look, think, act, and respond more like Jesus. Romans 8:28-29 says, "And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. 29For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren." God wants many many daughters and sons of purpose in the earth. He is saying to all of us... the climb might be difficult... but the view from the top is AMAZING! | 
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