During my senior year of college, the pastor from my campus fellowship sponsored me to attend the National Student Leadership Forum on Faith and Values in Washington, D.C. I was reluctant to go at first, mainly because I wasn’t in any leadership position at the time and didn’t feel qualified. But out of respect for him, I went anyway.
Though it’s been more than a decade since then, the words of one of the speakers — U.S. Representative John Zimmerman — left such a deep impression on me that I still remember them to this day.
He said, “Do not measure success by how much money you make, but by the positive impact you have on people’s lives.”
If I had to choose the first person who comes to mind when I think of the word “successful,” it would be the Apostle Paul, because his actions and words have made a positive impact on millions of people’s lives. (and “millions” is probably an understatement).
It still amazed me how Paul, a zealous prosecutor of early Christians, had turned into one of the most devoted follower and servant of Christ. He worked tirelessly, traveling from place to place to spread the gospel throughout the Roman Empire. He willingly endured suffering and persecution worse than what he had once inflicted on other believers. Even God said, “This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.” (Acts 9:15–16) Yet he continued to preach despite every hardship and setback.
The New Testament alone contains thirteen epistles written by Paul to early Christian communities and individuals, in which he offered heartfelt guidance, encouragement, and wisdom. Nearly 2000 years have passed since Paul’s death, but his words continue to guide and strengthen believers like me. Paul’s life reminds me that true success is not measured by status or achievement, but by a purpose-driven and impact-filled life fully surrendered to God.
Below are a few of my favorite verses written by Paul.
Philippians :13
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Paul wrote this while he was in prison. Even though he didn’t have much – no freedom, no comfort, and sometimes not even enough food – he was still thankful and content because he trusted that Jesus would give him the strength he needed for every situation. No matter what happened, good or bad, he kept going because Jesus gave him strength.
Romans 12:2
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds.”
This verse has become a backbone of the principles I live by. Paul reminds us not to blindly follow what everyone else in the world is doing – especially when it goes against biblical values. Instead, we should let God transform the way we think so we can recognize what is good and true. When we allow Him to guide our thoughts, we begin to live in a new and better way – one that isn’t swayed by cultural trends.
1 Corinthians 13:14
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”
True love isn’t just about feelings – it’s about choosing to be patient, kind, and humble every day, just like Jesus loves us.
Philippians 1:21
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
Paul is saying that his whole life belongs to Jesus – everything he does and everything that makes him happy is for Him. And even dying isn’t something to be afraid of, because it means he would get to be with Jesus forever.
If you asked me who my favorite Bible character is besides Jesus, I’d say without hesitation – Paul ! ( My second-favorite is Daniel :] )
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