People who live with purpose often have a set of core values—written or unwritten—that define what’s most important to them and guide how they live. These values act as a compass, shaping their decisions, relationships, and impact on the world. One such person was Steve Jobs, founder of Apple. His values, such as innovation, simplicity, and excellence, drove his vision and ultimately inspired the world to “Think differently.”

But no one lived with greater purpose than Jesus. He lived the most intentional, impactful life of any human being, seamlessly integrating His values into everything He said and did. Below are personal statements I’ve crafted to reflect what I believe were likely the core values of Jesus. They capture the principles that guided His life and that we as His disciples are called to embrace as well, as we apprentice with Him (as we... Be with Jesus, Become Like Jesus, and Do as Jesus Did).

1. Trust & Obedience

I live in full obedience to my Father, seeking His will, honoring His timing, and trusting Him in every situation.

2. Slowing Down to Abide 

I practice a slowed-down faith, resisting a hurried lifestyle to live in the present, sense His perspective, and join in His mission.

3. Rooted in Scripture

I hide God's Word in my heart to know Him deeply, follow His ways, and align all I do with His truth.

4. Personal Communion

I prioritize time alone with the Father to recharge, receive His vision, and realign with His leadership. As I am filled with His love, I am enabled to care for myself and overflow with love for others.

5. Humility & Service

I walk humbly with the Father, embracing service over personal glory and seeking to lift others up while maintaining healthy boundaries for self-care.

6. Truth & Integrity

I speak and live in truth, reflecting God’s character, standing against falsehood, and extending forgiveness and grace freely.

7.  Justice & Mercy

I enact God’s justice and mercy by comforting the hurting, restoring the broken, meeting the needs of the vulnerable.

8. Endurance Through Purpose 

By fixing my thoughts on the Father and His calling, I endure pain, suffering, and shame with purpose, carrying out His work in the joy set before me, for His glory.