NT25 FASTIhe Atụ

Day 11: Acts 12-21

Victor Arceo, Entrepreneur + Interpreter at UPPERROOM

I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace." Acts 20:24

In Acts 20:24, the apostle Paul declares his commitment to his purpose, showing a passion for sharing God’s grace that defined every aspect of his life. For a generation facing intense pressures around career, identity, and personal success, Paul’s words challenge us to consider where our deepest purpose lies. Rather than seeking validation in the world’s measures of success, Paul found his identity in God’s mission—an unwavering purpose that gave his life meaning even in times of difficulty. Many of us may find ourselves asking big questions about our direction, often juggling the desire for both stability and significance.

Paul's example reminds us that true purpose isn’t found in personal gain; rather, it’s anchored in a calling that goes beyond self-interest. “I consider my life worth nothing to me,” he says, indicating that the essence of his life wasn’t what he could achieve but what he could give in service to Christ. This perspective offers freedom in a world that values achievement and status, success now becomes faithful obedience rather than the accumulation of accomplishments.

Following Paul’s example, we can see that God calls us to a race uniquely designed for each one of us, where every step—whether challenging or rewarding—is an opportunity to reflect the love and grace of Jesus. For a generation driven by “likes, followers, influence and impact”, Paul’s words are an invitation to shift our focus from self-driven goals to a greater purpose that can withstand the ups and downs of life. Living with this purpose empowers us to face difficulty without losing hope and to celebrate successes without becoming consumed by them. When identity and meaning are rooted in God’s calling, there is a deep peace that doesn’t waver with circumstances. Reflect and pray about your purpose. Consider asking yourself: What am I pursuing most in my life? Where do I find my identity and worth? Ask Holy Spirit to reveal any areas where you might be seeking validation or success apart from Him.