What Is a Life That Matters?

by Crickett Keeth

What comes to mind when you hear the phrase, a life that matters?

• Financial wealth?

• Material possessions?

• Great achievements?

It is so much more than that. The best investment we can make during our time on earth, in addition to our own spiritual health, is investing in the lives of others. But what does that look like? How do we spur others on to become all God created them to be? How do we live a life worth emulating and one that continues to have an impact long after we’re gone?

To help answer these questions, we’ll look at the life of the apostle Paul in the book of 2 Timothy. In each week of this eight-week Bible study, we will address one of the qualities Paul modeled to help his young friend Timothy fulfill his God-given purpose and make a difference:

• Encouragement

• Faithfulness

• Strength

• Diligence

• Vigilance

• Equipping

• Commitment

• Steadfastness

Paul recognized the importance of investing in the lives of others, helping them grow in their faith and preparing them to carry out God’s purpose. Timothy was one of those Paul chose to equip for carrying on the Lord’s work after he was gone, and this young man became a leader in the Ephesian church.

Paul first met Timothy in Lystra on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:1–3), where he recruited Timothy to join him on his travels. It’s unclear whether Paul led Timothy to the Lord or if he was already a believer, led to Christ by the influence of his godly mother and grandmother. Regardless, Paul discipled and mentored this young man, helping him develop his gifts and ministry and grow in his relationship with Christ. He often referred to Timothy as his beloved son.

During Paul’s final years, persecution against Christians increased under Nero’s rule. Paul wrote two pastoral letters to Timothy during this time to guide and encourage him in Ephesus. The purpose of Paul’s first letter was to instruct him in the conduct and organization of the church. This second letter was written to direct him as he dealt with false teaching and to spur him on to stand firm in difficult times.

Paul made a difference with his life as he prepared Timothy and others to continue the ministry he was entrusting to them. He left a legacy of eternal significance.

As you study 2 Timothy, I pray you will follow Paul’s example by living out these eight qualities in your daily life, while cultivating them in your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, friends, and neighbors, whether you’re meeting together casually or in a formal mentoring/discipleship relationship. You can make a difference as you demonstrate Christ through these qualities, pointing others to the Lord and helping them become more like Him.

Taken from Living Out a Life That Matters by Crickett Keeth (© 2026). Published by Moody Publishers. Used by permission.

A graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary, CRICKETT KEETH is the author of several women’s Bible studies, including On Bended Knee, Before the Throne, The Gift of Rest, and Sumatra with the Seven Churches (coauthored with Sandra Glahn). Crickett has served in ministry to women for decades on staff with Cru and large churches in Dallas and Memphis (Women’s Ministry Director). She teaches at her church in Memphis and at women’s conferences and retreats nationwide. Crickett has a heart for coming alongside other women’s ministry leaders, and her life purpose is to encourage others to passionately pursue Jesus Christ. Find free resources to encourage you in your walk with God at www.crickettkeeth.com.