Living a Life That Counts: A Call to Purposeful Living

In a world filled with distractions, pressures, and fleeting pursuits, the question of living a meaningful life becomes more relevant with each passing day. What does it really mean to live a life that counts? Beyond the accumulation of wealth or fame lies a deeper, more fulfilling path: a life anchored in purpose, rooted in faith, and driven by eternal values.

Here are key principles that can help anyone live a life of lasting significance:

1. A Genuine Encounter with Jesus Christ

The true beginning of a purposeful life starts with a real and personal relationship with Jesus. He said in John 10:10, “I came that they may have life, and have it more abundantly.” This isn’t merely about existence, but about a life filled with peace (John 14:27; Philippians 4:7), joy (Jeremiah 29:11), direction (John 15:16), and eternal hope (1 John 5:10-12). Without Jesus, purpose is incomplete.

2. Transformation Through the Word

Romans 12:2 reminds us that transformation comes not by magic or sudden change, but through the renewing of our minds by God’s Word. A superior belief system rooted in Scripture shapes how we think, live, and impact others. True change is not imported it is cultivated through obedience to the truth.

3. Become Valuable Through Growth and Contribution

Your value and your contribution determine your influence and fulfillment. To be valuable, you must commit to skill development, continuous learning, and embracing best practices. Invest in yourself so you can offer intelligent, excellent, and meaningful contributions to the world around you.

4. Cultivate a Life of Generosity

A giving life is a fulfilled life. Giving isn't limited to money, it includes your time, talent, attention, encouragement, and service. A heart that gives reflects God’s nature and opens doors of impact.

5. Build and Invest in Relationships

No one fulfills purpose in isolation. Strong, healthy relationships with family, friends, mentors, and communities are essential. Investing in people will always outlast investments in things.

Most People Aren’t Evil, They’re Just Uninformed

Many aren’t wicked they’re simply lost, lacking exposure, transformation, or access to the truth. Instead of condemning them, we must share the light we have. Isaiah 41:21 challenges us to present our case to be ready to point others to truth with compassion and clarity.

6. Be Guided by Vision and Purpose

A life without vision is a life without direction. Proverbs 29:18 warns that where there is no vision, people perish. When you are guided by a clear sense of purpose, your decisions, priorities, and actions will align to something greater than yourself.

7. Develop People Skills and Understand Life’s Laws

Success is not just spiritual, it’s also relational. Build interpersonal skills, learn the law of honor, the power of words, and the importance of timing (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Understand human nature and develop emotional intelligence. These are vital tools for thriving in any setting.

8. Embrace the Blessing of Being a Blessing

Genesis 12:2 declares, “I will bless you and make you a blessing.” This is not just a promise, but a lifestyle mandate. You were not created to be a reservoir, but a river carrying God’s goodness to others.

9. Live by Core Values

Proverbs 25:28 compares a person without self-control to a city broken into and left without walls. Living by strong moral and spiritual values creates a foundation that protects and propels you.

10. Practice Self-Control and Discipline

Purposeful living demands restraint. Great lives are built not just by doing what’s allowed, but by consistently doing what’s right even when it's not easy. Discipline is the bridge between desire and destiny.

11. Have a Personal Moral Creed

What are the non-negotiables that guide your life? Having a personal moral code rooted in God’s Word gives you consistency, integrity, and authenticity in all spheres of life.

12. Genuinely Desire the Good of Others

Especially within the body of believers, we must pursue the good of others. True greatness is measured by how well we lift others. Love, compassion, and unity are not optional they are foundational.

13. Understand the Brevity of Life

Psalm 90:12 teaches, “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Life is short. We don’t have forever to do what matters. Let everyday count for eternity.

The Three Things That Matter Most

In John 9:4, Jesus says, “We must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work.” This verse reminds us to focus on what truly matters:

• Relationship with Jesus – the foundation of purpose (John 14:6).

• Relationship with People – the channel of influence and impact.

• Fulfilling God’s Assignment – our reason for being alive (Luke 2:26).

The invitation to live a life that counts is open to all. It’s not about perfection, but direction. Choose today to align your life with eternal purpose. Let your journey be marked by faith, value, generosity, and love and you’ll not only live a life that counts here on earth, but one that echoes in eternity. Inspired by Koinonia - AJS