from affirmation to humility

What If Your Life is Shaping Someone Else's?

Much Given. Much Required.

Affirmation is powerful. It’s one thing to recognize God at work in your own life—it’s another to hear that others see it too. When someone publicly affirms something true in you, especially someone from the next generation, it’s both a gift and a gut check.

That’s where I am right now.

I’ve been deeply humbled by the affirmation I’ve received from a generation coming behind me—young men aged 18 to 28. To have their ear, their trust, and in some cases their desire to model parts of their life after mine—it’s not something I take lightly. It’s meaningful. And it’s sobering.

A few Mondays ago, a young man in his late twenties shared something I’ll never forget. He said the way I love my wife, lead my tribe, and live generously is something he hopes to emulate. He spoke of hospitality and the way our home made him feel welcomed and seen. I was nearly in tears—not out of pride, but out of gratitude. I felt undeserving. But I could clearly see the fingerprints of God’s grace on that moment.

Here’s the truth: I don’t change lives. Jesus does. If there’s anything good in me, anything worth following—it’s Christ in me.

That’s why affirmation is humbling.

It reminds me of what Jesus said in Luke 12:48: “To whom much is given, much will be required.” He said this while teaching about readiness for His return. He wasn’t just talking about gifts or talents—He was talking about responsibility. About stewardship. About being found faithful when the Master comes.

So yes, when I hear that my life has made a difference, I’m grateful—but also gripped. I know I’ll be held accountable for how I’ve handled what He’s entrusted to me. Not to earn His approval, but because I already have it—and I want to honor it.

This is the posture I’m committed to: humility and stewardship.

I’m not strong enough, wise enough, or good enough on my own to lead men into life. But Christ is. And by His grace, I’ll remain faithful with what He’s placed in my hands—so when the Master returns, I’ll be found alert, awake, and about His business.

Bonus: Is your life marked by repentance?

One of my all time favorite quotes is from Martin Luther, a primary influence in the Reformation period (late 1400 and 1500’s).
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​“When our Lord and Master Jesus Christ said, “repent,” He willed the entire life of believers to be one of repentance.” ​
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Repentance is a key factor in the life of a Jesus Follower. It’s also one of the ways we can be confident that God has captured our hearts. Check out this teaching on “A Life of Repentance.”​
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Love you all…have a blessed week!