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Articles
The Impact of a Good Life
THE IMPACT OF A GOOD LIFE
There are great advantages in striving to live a good life—a life whose character is defined by our Creator. A good life is a significant commodity in society and in the church. Its impact on ourselves, our families, and others should never be underestimated.
Living a good life elevates the quality of life. “That it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land” is a promise that is learned in childhood and pertains to the good life generally (Eph. 6:2). He who wishes to “love life and see good days” is admonished to seek purity of life and love of neighbor (1 Pet. 3:10-11). As the “salt of the earth,” the one who walks in imitation of the life of Jesus instills a preservative element into life (Matt. 5:13). Salt also seasons; a godly walk brings a happiness and enjoyment to life that dispels the bitterness and resentment that tend to spoil all that is good.
Striving for the good not only promotes the right kind of life, but also helps to preserve those moral and spiritual values that will inevitably disappear if they are neglected. All that is wrong with the world could be set right as more people seek righteousness. The answers to life’s challenges and the solutions to the world’s problems will only come about to the degree that we return to seeking the things above.
Living a good life positively impacts others. It enables us to serve as the “light of the world” (Matt. 5:14-15). Striving for excellent behavior that is above reproach can disarm those who wish to slander us, and even lead them to give glory to God when they see us trying to live a good life (1 Pet. 2:11-12). Our lives can serve as examples that are worthy of imitation by others. They also serve to support and establish the validity of the things we believe and teach, as long as we live consistently. No one likes hypocrites, and they are easy to spot. Our lives need to provide support to the cause of righteousness, rather than bring reproach upon it.
Folks need to be able to see that Christianity, when practiced, really works. The good life of moral integrity and selfless service will have a profound impact for good upon those around us.
Living a good life validates your purpose. “Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. For in this way there will be provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Pet. 1:10-11). The good life is more than something we profess; it is validated through actions. No one is perfect, and we should thankfully rely on God’s grace. But those who have put on Christ must show forth his life by an earnest endeavor to imitate him.
A life well lived will ultimately fulfill the purpose for which we were made in the image of our Creator. Its impact will be long-lasting.
Dan Petty
