Living a Purposeful Life of Faith

Deepen your understanding of the importance of intentional living and consecration

Oct 22, 2024

Psychologists have found that having a sense of purpose is linked to numerous positive outcomes, including greater life satisfaction, improved mental health, and even longevity. When we consciously align our daily actions with our values, we experience a sense of fulfillment that transcends fleeting pleasures.

The study of final words—whether in literature, history, or personal experiences—reveals a compelling narrative about what truly matters at the end of life. These moments often reflect profound insights into love, forgiveness, and legacy. This research prompts us to reflect on our own lives: what would we want our final words to convey?

In John 17, Jesus offers a heartfelt prayer that encapsulates the essence of a life lived with purpose. His final words before his crucifixion are not only a personal reflection but also a profound teaching on love, unity, and the mission that defines existence. As we examine Jesus’ prayer, we find deep insights that can guide us in our pursuit of a meaningful life and we can better understand how to articulate our values and align our actions with a purpose that transcends our individual lives.

As we step into this moment, let’s pause to consider the emotions swirling within Jesus. Empathy mapping allows us to delve into his thoughts, feelings, and experiences. What was he thinking as he prayed for his disciples and future believers? What weight did the knowledge of impending betrayal and suffering carry in his heart? It’s likely that he felt a profound mix of love, sorrow, and urgency. He was keenly aware of the gravity of the moment, not just for himself but for those he cared about deeply. His prayer was a reflection of his desire to impart strength and unity to his followers, knowing that they would soon face trials without him.

In these final hours, he was not just contemplating his fate; he was focusing on their needs, their fears, and their future. His prayer encapsulated not only his commitment to God’s purpose but also his deep concern for the well-being of those he was leaving behind.

As Jesus walked with his disciples through the quiet night streets of Jerusalem, he knew these were his final moments of freedom. They had just finished the Passover meal, the last they would share together. The words he’d spoken to them that evening were heavy with both love and urgency: he’d washed their feet, commanded them to love one another, and promised them a Helper, the Holy Spirit. But there was still so much his disciples didn’t understand. In a matter of hours, one of them would betray him, leading to his arrest, trial, and crucifixion.

Crossing the Kidron Valley, they made their way toward the Mount of Olives. There, in the quietness of a garden where he often went to pray, Jesus paused. He looked up to heaven, and as he prayed, a powerful mix of emotions filled his heart: sorrow, determination, love, and hope.

Jesus first prayed for himself, asking the Father to glorify him through what he was about to endure. He knew that the suffering he faced would reveal God’s love and mercy to the world. Then, he prayed for his disciples, knowing they would soon face loss, confusion, and persecution. He asked God to protect them, to keep them united and strong in their mission, so that they could share his message with the world.

Finally, he prayed for everyone who would come to believe through their message—the countless future believers. His greatest desire was that they would be united, just as he and the Father were united, so the world would see and understand God’s love.

In these last moments of freedom, Jesus’ heart was laid bare. Facing the cross, he prayed not for escape, but for the strength and unity of all who would follow him. His words carried across the ages, inviting everyone to know the depth of his love and the path to true life.

After saying all these things, Jesus looked up to heaven and said,
“Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so he can give glory back to you. For you have given him authority over everyone. He gives eternal life to each one you have given him. And this is the way to have eternal life—to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth. I brought glory to you here on earth by completing the work you gave me to do. Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began.”

“I have revealed you to the ones you gave me from this world. They were always yours. You gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything I have is a gift from you, for I have passed on to them the message you gave me. They accepted it and know that I came from you, and they believe you sent me.”

“My prayer is not for the world, but for those you have given me, because they belong to you. All who are mine belong to you, and you have given them to me, so they bring me glory. Now I am departing from the world; they are staying in this world, but I am coming to you. Holy Father, you have given me your name; now protect them by the power of your name so that they will be united just as we are. During my time here, I protected them by the power of the name you gave me. I guarded them so that not one was lost, except the one headed for destruction, as the Scriptures foretold.”

“Now I am coming to you. I told them many things while I was with them in this world so they would be filled with my joy. I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth. Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world. And I give myself as a holy sacrifice for them so they can be made holy by your truth.”

“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.”

“I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me. Father, I want these whom you have given me to be with me where I am. Then they can see all the glory you gave me because you loved me even before the world began!”

“O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know you, but I do; and these disciples know you sent me. I have revealed you to them, and I will continue to do so. Then your love for me will be in them, and I will be in them.” John 17:1-26

Final words hold a unique power in human psychology, resonating deeply in those who hear or read them. Psychologists and researchers suggest that this power stems from the high emotional stakes tied to final moments, whether they're last words from a loved one, a famous farewell speech, or final messages left by historical figures.

At a basic level, final words carry significance because they reflect a culmination of thoughts, values, and insights. People know these moments are often unrepeatable, which brings a sense of urgency and authenticity. The speaker or writer usually prioritizes what they believe matters most, often focusing on themes like love, forgiveness, legacy, or unity. For instance, in end-of-life psychology, clinicians observe that terminally ill patients frequently use their final conversations to express unresolved emotions, communicate love, or pass on wisdom. These words become memorable because they encapsulate a person’s essence and worldview.

Additionally, psychological studies show that human memory is especially sensitive to endings, a phenomenon known as the recency effect. This means that we often remember the last things we see or hear more vividly than other parts. Because final words are often the last communication we have with someone, they become imprinted in our minds, carrying a lasting emotional weight.

In collective memory, final words or farewells can shape public perception. Last speeches, from Socrates’ calm acceptance before drinking poison to Martin Luther King Jr.’s reflections just before his assassination, often become symbols of the individual's life and cause. Psychologically, these words endure not only because they’re impactful but also because they bring closure. In many ways, they offer a "conclusion" to that person’s life narrative, leaving listeners or readers with a sense of completeness.

Jesus’ final words carry immense spiritual and emotional significance, resonating with themes of love, sacrifice, forgiveness, and divine purpose. Throughout the Gospels, each account of his last words reveals layers of meaning that continue to inspire reflection and faith.

In the Gospel of John, during his last prayer, Jesus speaks intimately with God, asking for unity, protection, and love for his disciples and all who would believe. His words are deeply personal and full of hope, showing his ultimate desire for humanity to know the same closeness and love he has with the Father. He prays, "that they may be one as we are one" (John 17:22), emphasizing unity as a reflection of divine love.

On the cross, Jesus’ last words also capture the depth of his compassion. In Luke 23:34, he says, "Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing," expressing forgiveness even for those who were executing him. His final cry, recorded in John 19:30, is "It is finished." This phrase marks the completion of his mission—fulfilling prophecies, revealing God's love, and opening the path to redemption. In Matthew 27:46, he calls out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"—a line that echoes Psalm 22 and reflects his deep suffering but also identifies with the pain of humanity.

Each of these phrases has become a wellspring of comfort, reflection, and strength for believers. Jesus’ last words transcend time, inviting people into a personal relationship with God and embodying his love and purpose. Through his final words, Jesus gives not only comfort and forgiveness but also a profound sense of unity, purpose, and hope that continues to draw people closer to the heart of his message.

The wisdom of final words can deeply inform a purposeful, meaningful life. They often reflect what a person values most when all else fades away. By paying attention to the themes found in final words—love, forgiveness, unity, legacy, and hope—we can shape our lives with intentionality, grounding our everyday actions in what truly matters.

In end-of-life reflections, people frequently express regret for not nurturing relationships or pursuing passions, which speaks to the human need for connection and authenticity. We can apply this by living each day as if we are crafting our own legacy, asking ourselves, What words would I want to leave behind? and, Am I living in a way that makes those words true?

Consider Jesus' final words, filled with love, forgiveness, and unity. They challenge us to lead lives centered on compassion, reconciliation, and a higher purpose. His prayer for unity and his plea for forgiveness, even in pain, suggest that a meaningful life isn’t about self-preservation or success alone; it’s about loving others and creating lasting harmony.

In our daily lives, this might mean focusing less on accumulating status or achievements and more on building up those around us. Living purposefully means pursuing goals that not only fulfill personal ambitions but also contribute to a broader sense of community, love, and justice. Every decision can become an expression of our values, helping to build a life story we can be proud of—one where our final words would speak not of regrets but of fulfilled purpose and deep connections.

Embracing the wisdom of final words calls us to live with awareness, prioritizing what we want to leave behind in the hearts of others. It’s a call to remember that each day offers an opportunity to live more purposefully, so that when our own final words come, they reflect a life well-lived, filled with meaning, and rich in love.

As we reflect on the profound impact of final words, let us heed the call to consecrate our lives in service to God and others. The Bible urges us to live with intention and purpose, recognizing that our lives are a testament to our faith.

In Romans 12:1, Paul writes, “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” This invitation to offer ourselves fully to God is a powerful call to consecration. It challenges us to live each day in a way that honors God and reflects His love to the world.

Jesus exemplified this call to consecrate when he said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Our actions and words should point others toward God’s glory. In a world filled with distractions, we are called to be vessels of His light, intentionally living out our faith in our daily interactions.

Consecration is not merely an act of dedication but a lifestyle of devotion. As we commit to a life that honors God, we must also remember the words from Joshua 24:15: “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” This decision to serve God should permeate every aspect of our lives, guiding our choices and relationships.

Let this be our call to action: to consecrate ourselves in love, service, and unity. As we reflect on the final words of Jesus and the lives of those who came before us, let us commit to living a life that echoes His love and purpose. May our actions, words, and choices reflect our dedication to Him, leaving behind a legacy of faith that points others toward the truth of the Gospel.

As we step forward, let us pray for strength and guidance to live out this calling, knowing that every moment is an opportunity to honor God and impact the world around us. The question is, how can we reach this increasingly isolated and fragmented world? Jesus is our teacher and role model as a storyteller!

Jesus utilized relatable imagery to convey deep theological truths, stating I AM:

Light of the World:
- “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” (John 8:12)
Bread of Life:
- “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Those who believe in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35)
Living Water:
- “But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” (John 4:14)
Good Shepherd:
- “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
Way, Truth, and Life:
- “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
Vine:
- “I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

When Jesus declares “I am” in the Gospel of John, he directly addresses our real-life struggles, providing comfort and solutions to the stress we all experience in today's world.

I Am the Light of the World: In a time when over 70% of adults in the U.S. report feeling stressed about the future of the country (American Psychological Association, 2023), Jesus offers clarity. His light helps us navigate uncertainty and confusion, guiding us away from despair and towards hope.
I Am the Bread of Life: Many people today experience food insecurity or feel unfulfilled in their careers, leading to anxiety about basic needs. With nearly 10% of American households facing food shortages (U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2023), Jesus’ claim to be the bread of life reminds us that true nourishment comes from him, addressing our deeper hunger for purpose and connection beyond physical sustenance.
I Am the Living Water: In an era where more than 25% of adults report feeling overwhelmed by daily responsibilities (Gallup, 2022), Jesus offers us living water that quenches our thirst for peace and renewal. This promise of refreshment speaks directly to those feeling drained by work, family obligations, and societal pressures.
I Am the Good Shepherd: As we face increased mental health challenges—with nearly one in five adults experiencing mental illness (National Institute of Mental Health, 2022)—Jesus stands as our protector. He reminds us that we are valued and cared for, providing comfort amid anxiety and fear.
I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: In a climate of misinformation and divisive politics, the overwhelming stress can lead to confusion and frustration. Jesus embodies the ultimate truth, helping us cut through the noise and find genuine peace in our decisions, particularly as we approach elections that often exacerbate stress levels.
I Am the Vine: With social isolation on the rise—39% of U.S. adults report feeling lonely (Cigna, 2021)—Jesus emphasizes the importance of connection. He invites us to stay rooted in him to find community and support, which are crucial in times of stress.

By recognizing Jesus as these essential elements in our lives, we can confront the real stressors we face. His words offer practical solutions to our immediate needs.

In a time when stress and anxiety are at an all-time high, with nearly 76% of Americans reporting physical symptoms due to stress (American Psychological Association, 2023), the need for hope and connection has never been more critical. The truths Jesus offers can be a powerful source of encouragement for ourselves and those around us.

Each day, we encounter friends, family, and colleagues who may be struggling with their own battles. Many individuals feel isolated; a staggering 58% of Americans report feeling lonely (Cigna, 2021). It’s essential that we take action and share the hope we find in Jesus with those in our networks.

How can you do this today? Start simple. Reach out to someone who has been on your mind. A phone call, text, or even a message on social media can make a significant difference. Share a verse or a personal testimony about how Jesus has been your light, your source of sustenance, or your guide through tough times.

Consider organizing a small gathering, whether in person or virtually, where you and your friends can discuss the stresses you're facing and the truths that bring you hope. This doesn’t require professional facilitation; it simply needs open hearts and willing participants. When we come together and share our experiences, we foster an environment of support that can uplift and inspire.

In a recent survey, 89% of people said that they feel better when they talk to someone about their struggles (Mental Health America, 2022). By creating spaces for these conversations, we reinforce the idea that we don’t need to be professionals to support one another. Community and connection can provide the very help we need to navigate life’s challenges.

Today, take that step to connect and share these truths. Remember that even a small act can ripple outwards, bringing hope to someone who may feel overwhelmed. Let’s be the light in each other's lives, encouraging one another with the profound messages of love, unity, and purpose that Jesus exemplifies. Together, we can create a network of support that transforms our collective experience and brings healing in times of need.