By: Kurt Barnes

In a world obsessed with achievements and accolades, we often find ourselves asking children, “What do you want to do when you grow up?” This seemingly innocent question subtly reinforces the idea that our worth is tied to our career or accomplishments. But what if we shifted our focus? What if instead, we asked, “Who do you want to be when you grow up?”

This simple change in perspective can profoundly impact how we view success and fulfillment. Instead of emphasizing skills and knowledge, we could be nurturing character, values, and a deep-rooted desire to follow Jesus Christ. Imagine encouraging our youth to aspire to be gentle, kind, joyful, gracious, and Christlike. This redefinition of success could shape a generation passionate about apprenticing under Jesus, allowing His teachings and love to mold their very being.

As John Maxwell wisely stated, “We need to focus on being bigger on the inside (character) than we are on the outside (influence).” This sentiment echoes the biblical truth that our inner transformation in Christ is far more valuable than worldly success. After all, Jesus himself asked, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” (Mark 8:36)

The concept of abiding in Christ is central to this transformation. It’s not just a temporary practice but a lifelong journey of intentional connection with God. As we spend time with Him, we are changed, reflecting His character and becoming more like Him. This transformation isn’t just for personal growth; it leads us to do what Jesus did, producing fruit that impacts everyone around us.

In his famous TED talk, David Brooks spoke about the difference between “résumé virtues” and “eulogy virtues.” While résumé virtues are the skills we bring to the marketplace, eulogy virtues are deeper – they speak to who we are in our depth, the nature of our relationships, and our character. Most of us would agree that eulogy virtues are more important, yet we often focus more on building our résumés than on cultivating our character.

The apostle Peter reminds us of our identity in Christ: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9-10). This identity empowers us to live out our calling, as Peter further exhorts: “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us” (1 Peter 2:12).

The Greek word used for “good” in this verse is “kalos,” which can also be translated as beautiful, excellent, or admirable. We are called to live beautiful lives, not hidden away, but on display among non-believers. Our transformed lives should shine like stars in the sky, holding firmly to the word of life (Philippians 2:15-16).

This beautiful life is meant to be lived out in our everyday interactions, especially within our “oikos” – our immediate circle of influence. Throughout the New Testament, we see examples of entire households coming to faith because of one person’s transformed life. From Zacchaeus to Lydia to the Philippian jailer, the impact of a changed life rippled through families and communities.

Research consistently shows that 75-90% of people who come to faith in Jesus do so because of the influence of a friend or relative. This highlights the importance of living out our faith openly and authentically. As Dallas Willard noted, “If those in the churches really are enjoying fullness of life, evangelism will be unstoppable and largely automatic.”

Two key areas where we can focus on living a beautiful life on display are our work and our good deeds. Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us to work as if working for the Lord, not for human masters. This perspective transforms our daily tasks into acts of worship and ministry. Whether we’re chefs, pilots, entrepreneurs, or street sweepers, we can do our work with excellence, integrity, and love, as if Jesus Himself were in our place.

Alongside our work, we are called to do good deeds. While salvation is by grace through faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9), genuine faith naturally produces good works. As Jesus taught, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). These acts of kindness and service become a powerful testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel in a world often focused on self-interest.

However, it’s crucial to maintain the right order: our good works and obedience do not earn God’s love; they are the fruit of it. As we abide in Christ, like branches connected to the vine, we naturally bear fruit. Our acts of service and sacrifice flow from our connection to Him, not from striving or obligation.

Finally, while living a beautiful life is powerful, we must not shy away from verbally sharing the reason for our hope. As Romans 10:14-15 asks, “How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” We are called to be ready to give an answer for the hope we have, doing so with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).

As we navigate our daily lives, let’s remember that who we are in Christ empowers what we do. By abiding in Him, we are transformed, enabling us to live beautiful lives that draw others to the light of Christ. Whether through our work, our good deeds, or our words, may our lives be a living testament to the Gospel, impacting our “oikos” and beyond with the love and truth of Jesus Christ.