What do you want to be remembered for?

The New Year has begun. But let’s be honest—most New Year resolutions fade away within a few days. Why? Because change for the sake of change is neither motivating nor sustainable. True change must be rooted in purpose.

Some changes enter our lives because of circumstances. Others happen from within. For me, the turning point came through an inner change—one that God brought about. I had to pause and ask myself: What do I truly want to do with my life? Is it just to make money, raise children, retire, grow old, and die—or is there a greater purpose?

I began my career in computer marketing with the dream of making it big in life—for myself and my family. That’s a good dream to have, especially since I wanted to help my father as the eldest child at home. But in the final year of my bachelor’s degree, while attending a youth conference, I was confronted with the harsh realities of this world. A powerful question struck me: What am I doing about the hopelessness around me?

That very night, I happened to read a passage about a prophet called by God to redeem humanity. God asked, “Whom shall I send? Who will go for me?” The prophet replied, “Here I am, send me.” I felt God asking me the same question—and my response changed the course of my life.

Of course, questions came rushing in: What about my finances? My future? My dreams? Looking back 20 years later, I can say with confidence and without regret—God’s plan for my life has been far better than anything I could have imagined. Much of what I had once desired was fulfilled in ways I could never have orchestrated myself. Learning to trust the One who called me was not easy at first, but over time, it became my way of life.

One of the greatest blessings has been God’s choice of my wife—someone who shares the same vision and calling, walking beside me through every season. Together, we’ve stepped into unknown places and situations, often with little or no money. Yet, every time, God has faithfully led us. Even when our children came along and financial pressures increased, we never lacked what we needed. There was always enough—not for our greed, but for our need.

This journey has taught me one simple truth: to be true agents of change in society, change must first begin with our own aims, goals, and priorities.

So, here’s a question worth asking this New Year: “What do you want to be remembered for?”

If you want to live with purpose and not just exist, give your plans to God and trust His promise: “I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you and not to harm you” (Jeremiah 29:11).

This year, don’t just exist—LIVE!