When Jesus turned to His disciple Simon Peter and asked, “Who do you say that I am?” He invited Simon into an intimate moment of revelation, one that went beyond titles and labels. Peter responded, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” This moment wasn’t just a confession of faith; it was a recognition of identity and purpose. Jesus knew who He was—His mission was unwavering, grounded in a divine vision. But Peter’s acknowledgment reaffirmed that identity on a personal level. For us, this passage poses a question worth asking in our own lives and work: Who do people say we are? More importantly, who do we say we are?

In today’s world, we’re surrounded by a constant influx of filters—some digital, some personal, and some societal. Social media filters our faces, professions filter our roles, and often, we put on emotional “filters” to gain approval, acceptance, or validation. But these layers can sometimes obscure our true purpose and calling. Jesus did not need filters or embellishments to fulfill His mission. He was open, authentic, and intentional, and in doing so, He made a lasting impact. In the business world, this level of authenticity is rare but powerful. Do you need others to define your worth, or do you walk confidently in the identity and purpose you know to be true?

Jesus came with a clear mission: to be about His Father’s business, to save, heal, and transform lives. Imagine if He had swayed with every opinion or criticism thrown His way. The purpose would have been compromised, and His impact diminished. We can take a page from this as we navigate our own professional lives. Whether building a business, climbing a corporate ladder, or stepping into a leadership role, purpose and vision must remain front and center. In the hustle and bustle of the business world, it’s easy to lose sight of why we started or who we are meant to serve.

What vision has God placed in your heart? Are you willing to pursue it, even if it means not pleasing everyone?

Today, it’s more important than ever to understand who we are and to live in that truth. Jesus’s question to Simon is an invitation to each of us: Who do you say that I am? He knew some would reject Him, misunderstand Him, even despise Him. And still, He stayed true to His calling. When we find ourselves bogged down by the opinions and judgments of others, we can look to this moment for strength. It’s okay if not everyone “gets” you or if your path looks different from those around you.

What are the parts of yourself that you may be holding back because they don’t fit the mold? How can you let go of that need for approval and simply be who you’re called to be?

In every endeavor—whether in business or personal life—we have a choice: to be driven by external approval or to follow an internal compass. Jesus showed us that when we are about a vision greater than ourselves, we do not need everyone’s validation. In fact, that pursuit of external approval can distract us from our purpose. Embracing our true selves, as Jesus did, and staying committed to our God-given purpose, not only frees us from the trap of people-pleasing but also empowers us to serve genuinely.

So, in the spirit of Jesus’s question, I challenge you to ask yourself today: Who do you say that you are? What purpose drives you forward? Let this be the foundation of your authenticity, and don’t be swayed by the opinions that come and go. Instead, let your actions and integrity reveal the depth of your purpose, just as Jesus did.

1. What might you be holding back out of fear of others’ opinions?

2. How can you bring more authenticity into your business or work life?

3. Are you walking in alignment with the vision you feel called to fulfill?

   
   

In the end, the world will say many things about you. But what matters most is that you live by what God has placed in your heart. Keep being about your Father’s business and let everything else fall into place.