Living a Significant Lifeਨਮੂਨਾ

I have spoken on stadium platforms before thousands of people. I’ve gone viral on social media.

I’ve achieved big goals and accumulated accolades. Yet through it all, I have never been more convinced of this truth: happiness, joy, and contentment are never generated by achievements. And they are never sustained by them.

But I built this conviction the hard way. And over time.

When I was in eighth-grade, I auditioned to be the leading lady in my middle school play. It was easy for me to envision myself in the role. I thought I was good enough. Why wouldn’t I be her? I assumed I’d get it.

I was wrong. Another girl beat me out.

My failure to secure the part I craved and the spotlight that went with it only fueled what would become a decades-long pursuit of significance. I set out to win the role of everyone’s admiration.

And guess what? I was pretty successful at it for a while. I was ambitious, goal-oriented, and confident—qualities that naturally drew applause and reinforced a “performance cycle” that became second nature to me.

But all of this seeming success had a dark side. No matter what I achieved or how fast I achieved it, even my biggest accomplishments never felt sufficient. Deep down, my greatest fear was that my life wouldn’t count. Striving for significance was my way to find validation, and eventually, the applause of others became my source of worth.

“Viral” or “Influencer” or “Celebrity Status” is the common currency of our day. I’m not alone. Maybe you’ve aspired to see yourself on stages before throngs of thousands. Or maybe significance looks different for you—like raising near-perfect kids, being worshiped at your job, or having an impeccable wellness routine and the abs to prove it.

We all have a favorite platform, but take it from me: satisfaction from outward success is fleeting. Real significance is an inside job.

Paul reminds us of this very thing in his letter to the Philippians. As an overachiever himself, Paul knew what success and influence felt like. But after being completely transformed by Jesus, he was able to be “quite content” no matter what circumstances came his way.

Content whatever the context.

Content with influence, but also in obscurity.

Content with accolades, but also in rejection.

Content with success, but also in failure.

How did Paul get to this place of enviable contentment? The same way you and I do: through the revelation that our worth is not rooted in what we can do. It’s rooted in Christ.

The Savior’s love for you and His purposeful plans for you are not established by your performance. Your true significance and influence are not about what you do but WHOSE you are.

Today, let this truth sink in—down deep in your bones. And repeat Paul’s words as you continue your day: Whatever I have, wherever I am, I am significant in the One who makes me WHO I am.

REFLECTION:

How would life be different if you shifted the way you approach both successes and setbacks?

What can you do to remind yourself that your significance is not defined by what you do but by who you are in Christ? Get creative.