Day 12 – Living Boldly: Being Cool Is Not the Path to Success

Photo: ©ediebloom from Getty Images Signature via Canva.com

Let’s tackle a common cultural myth: the idea that being “cool” is the way to succeed. The truth is that chasing coolness is rarely fruitful. Instead, it often leads to dysfunctional relationships and a self-focused, enslaving way of life that demands that others notice, admire, and desire to be you. Perhaps it would serve all of us if we redefine what it means to be “cool” from a biblical perspective.

Rick’s 31-Day Devotions

• 31-Day Marriage Devotion
• 31-Day Parenting Devotion
• 31-Day Young Adult Devotion

He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not (Isaiah 53:3).

Biblical “Coolness” Is Countercultural

The world’s definition of coolness revolves around self-promotion and comparison. You measure yourself against others, striving to meet shifting standards of popularity, style, or status. The insecure soul that craves the approval of others will scan the cultural landscape for the most popular fads and acclimate and adorn their themselves accordingly, only to pivot when the cultural winds of change blow again. Biblical coolness looks nothing 
like the culture’s zeitgeist.

Consider Isaiah 53:1-7, where Christ is described as “un-esteemed,” “unlovely,” “unappealing,” and “unacceptable.” These words are the opposite of cool, yet they perfectly describe Jesus. He wasn’t focused on fitting in or impressing others. Oh, He drew passionate followers. Why? Because true greatness isn’t about conforming; it’s about living in alignment with God and His purposes.

Jesus: The Ultimate Outlier

Imagine Jesus as a young adult. He likely was not overly concerned with impressing others. His focus was on His mission and honoring His Father. His toga might not have been the trendiest, and His priorities didn’t match the culture’s. He stood out because eternal values, not fleeting popularity, drove His life. Ironically, something was appealing about Jesus. He was not a rebel without a cause, and He did not rebel just to be different.

He was dialed in on His Father’s purpose, which put Him out-of-alignment with the world, making Himself God’s choice as our leader (1 Corinthians 1:18-25). The life of Christ underscores a powerful truth: success in God’s kingdom isn’t about strength, popularity, or cultural approval. It’s about humility, obedience, and faithfulness.

The Competing Paths: Godly or Cool?

Being godly and cool often pull in opposite directions if your primary concern is cultural assumptions. To pursue godliness, you’ll likely have to let go of worldly definitions of success. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), reminding us that His path is right—even when it feels countercultural.

Time to Reflect

1. Whose opinion matters most: God’s or the culture’s? Your answer reveals what influences you the most. Why did you answer the way you did? If you find yourself prioritizing culture, reflect on how God’s eternal truth offers something far better than fleeting trends.
2. What keeps you from fully identifying as a Christian? Is it fear of standing out, rejection, or losing popularity? Be honest about your struggles, and ask God to help you trust Him more deeply.
3. Take time to evaluate your priorities. Are you chasing approval, or are you pursuing a life that honors Christ? Remember, the world’s version of cool is temporary, but following Jesus leads to eternal purpose and joy.

Let’s live boldly, choosing the path of godliness over fleeting popularity.

Need More Help?

1. If you want to learn more from us, you may search this site for thousands of resources—articles, podcasts, videos, graphics, and more. Please spend time studying the ones that interest you. They are free.
2. If you want to talk to us, we have private forums for those who support this ministry financially. Please consider supporting us here if you would like to help us keep our resources free.

Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).