“An effective life cannot be quantified. . . . An effective life has to do with the position and condition of your soul.”- Judah Smith
In Chapter 7 (“An Effective Life”) of How’s Your Soul?, Pastor Judah Smith takes issue with a common childhood question often asked by adults. That question- “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Defining life as a destination, the question insinuates that life is about arriving, rather than a journey.
Therefore, Judah believes the question needs to be changed. He suggests: “What do you want your life to look like?” or “What kind of soul do you want to have?”
Furthermore, Judah’s questions spark an honest evaluation of the effectiveness of our lives. Hence, this contrasts with something simpler, but harder to measure- living a life worth living. It follows, then, that our souls possess a God-given need for purpose and significance. Pastor Smith explains:
“A truly effective life, though, begins with an effective soul. It flows from a soul that functions and finds its value not in external accomplishments but in its relationship to God. As our souls find themselves in God, our lives will find their purpose, place, and value in Him as well.”
In addition, Pastor Smith notes that the apostle Paul’s closing comments to the Corinthians contain two major elements (purpose and significance) of the effective life. Also, these two elements shine through Paul’s life because they permeated his lifestyle:
“But I will stay in Ephesus until Pentecost, for a side door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.”- 1 Corinthians 16:9
However, such a life isn’t always easy nor perfect. Along the way, we encounter challenges and difficulties. Yet, even in the midst of adversity, we can be full, fruitful, and effective.
Today’s question: Currently, how would you describe the position and condition of your soul? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Surrendered and surrounded”
