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Church culture can be beautiful, from Sabbath worship service to small group studies, to the shared lingo, our community, and all of our routines. These things are part of us, and they all have their place. But as believers, our aim isn’t just to be good at “church.” We aim to be close to Christ.

So how can you tell when your faith is rooted in Jesus and not just in religious routines?

Here are 8 encouraging signs that you're living a Christ-centered life—not just a church-centered one.

1.  You Value Love Over Aesthetics

You care more about people feeling seen and welcomed than whether the service runs perfectly or the social media platforms match. Your heart and your effort focus on how to make sure people encounter Jesus—not just an experience. You show up ready to care, and ready to serve. You pay attention to the person sitting alone or the newcomer who feels uncomfortable because this is a church where people matter.

Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.— 1 Samuel 16:7

2.  Your Relationship with Jesus Is Personal...Not Just Public

You communicate with Him when no one’s watching. You want to feel closer to Him; you make time to open your Bible because you want to, not because someone told you to.
Even when you're not in the church building, you still walk closely with the Lord.

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father…— Matthew 6:6

3.  You Serve from a Place of Overflow, Not Obligation

You know that your value isn’t wrapped up in how many ministries you lead, how often you're seen at church events, or how much you give financially. It’s not about your title, it's about who you belong to. While there’s work to be done, you prioritize your relationship with the Lord. And because of that, serve from a place of overflow rather than burnout.

Martha’s service was a good thing, but Mary prioritized the relationship, which was better.

Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her. — Luke 10:42

4.  You're Spiritually Steady Even Outside the Church Walls

You love gathering with other believers, but your faith doesn’t rely on a building, a program, or a worship service. Whether you're in a packed sanctuary or home alone on a quiet evening, your faith remains firm. Your relationship with Jesus doesn’t depend on being in the sanctuary; it’s a daily reality.

Remain in me, as I also remain in you.— John 15:4

5.  You're Honest and Open About Your Faith Journey

You don’t hide your struggles, you know that spiritual growth isn’t a straight line…it can be messy, but it’s full of grace. You share your testimony, triumphs, doubts, and mistakes. When you do this, people can experience healing through your honesty, and you invite others into your journey—flaws and all.

“Confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.— James 5:16

6.  You Know the Difference Between Activity and Intimacy

You’re involved—but not because you gain something from it. You’re not busy just to be busy. You know that focusing on Jesus and having that intimate relationship with Him is more valuable than being seen by people. And when you commit to an opportunity to serve, your yes has depth and weight; it’s not just a duty or obligation. 

He says, Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.  —  Psalm 46:10

7. You Admire Leaders, But You Only Worship Jesus

You’re grateful for your pastor, leaders, and mentors, but your faith doesn’t rise or fall with them. If they leave, fall, or change directions, your spiritual life doesn’t fall apart. You know that leaders are human, and yes, they may inspire you, but Jesus is the only one who can transform. You know that Christ is the source and the only one who is worthy of your complete trust.

No one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.— 1 Corinthians 3:11

8.  You're Willing to Let God Shift Your Traditions

You’re open to God doing a new thing, even if it's out of your comfort zone. You’re not so stuck on how it's...always been done...that you miss what God is doing right now.

It may mean accepting an unfamiliar expression of worship or a different way of serving. You can adapt because you’re not loyal to comfort, you’re listening to, and following Christ.

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?— Isaiah 43:19

Keep Christ at the Center

We are all growing and being transformed. Thankfully, Christ’s love is patient. So, if we see ourselves on this list, that’s a good thing; it’s a sign that we are growing spiritually.  

Even if we fall short in some of these areas, we don’t have to be discouraged; our walk of faith may not be perfect, but we can still find ways to draw closer to Jesus.

Fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith.— Hebrews 12:2