As we embrace a new year, it’s important to focus on building a meaningful life and to remember how the Lord crafts and shapes us into who and what we’re supposed to be. With that in mind, today, I want to talk about choosing to invest in what really matters. This is an especially good reminder after the holidays, which often center around obtaining a multitude of material things. While it’s nice to get gifts at Christmas, stuff will not ultimately fulfill us. Jesus fulfills us. If we need evidence of this, we can learn from the stories of famous athletes, writers, and musicians who — at some point in their careers — had all the money, glory, and awards in the world but would tell us now that those things didn’t add meaning to their existence. The truth is that when we live for a few people rather than for an audience of millions and we focus on blessing those in the six feet of space around us, we can have a genuinely fulfilling life — one that will make a difference after we’re gone. Instead of seeking awards, money, or fame, we can invest in relationships and serve those closest to us. When we do this, our efforts will be remembered in Heaven and blessed by God, and He will fill us to overflowing with eternal treasure that will endure long after we leave this earth.

My friend, as you build your life on serving those around you, you will find fulfillment and purpose. In this age of social media, it’s easy to compare your achievements and accomplishments to those of others, but this only leads to discontent. Even if you go after everything your heart desires, there will come a time when you run out of places to put stuff. When this time comes, what will you have invested in? At the end of the day, relationships with God and people are the most important thing. Choose to place priority on precious human souls, and you will inherit a truly meaningful and abundant existence!