How to Spot a False Story—and Live a Better One

There’s a quiet crisis behind the noise of modern life.

We’re the most connected, resourced, and educated generation in history—yet we’re chronically restless. Even in the church, we chase worth through productivity, meaning through experiences, and identity through constant reinvention.

But what if the problem isn’t our status? What if it’s our story?

We’re living by a story that doesn’t hold. One that can’t bear the weight of our longing. One that needs to be named, unlearned, and replaced by something far better: the gospel way.

We’re all living by a story—even if we don’t realize it.

Every day, from the headlines we scan to the Netflix shows we binge, we absorb assumptions about who we are, what life is for, and what will finally make us happy. Some of those assumptions are subtle, some are loud, but most feel like common sense.

But here’s the truth: If we don’t examine the story we’re living by, we might wake up one day and realize it’s taken us somewhere we never meant to go.

In the Gospels, Jesus constantly confronts false stories—religious, political, or personal. He doesn’t just correct them. He offers something better—a new way of seeing, a new way of being, a story where the lost are found, the weary are welcomed, and the proud are gently undone.

And Jesus still does it today.

As a pastor, I have noticed that many of the people I shepherd—including myself—don’t stop believing the gospel all at once. They just start believing another story alongside it. One that’s more “livable” at the moment. One that sounds more like the culture and less like Christ.

We’ve heard variations of this modern popular story. When was the last time you heard one of these cultural narratives:

• You are what you produce.
• Freedom means doing whatever you want.
• Your truth is the only truth that matters.
• You’re not lovable unless you succeed.

And slowly, the gospel becomes background noise instead of the story we live and breathe.

But here’s the good news: Jesus doesn’t just offer forgiveness—He offers reformation. He reshapes not only what we do, but what we love, trust, and desire.

That means we need tools: not just for information, but for formation.

We need to name the false stories, trace their appeal, and re-root ourselves in the true story of the gospel again and again. That work isn’t flashy, but it’s vital.

Discipleship isn’t just learning more content—it’s learning to recognize counterfeits. And that’s the invitation of Jesus in every generation: “Come, follow me” (Matthew 4:19).

With these words, we know the fullness of all Jesus is inviting us into…

Follow me into truth.
Follow me into freedom.
Follow me into a better story.

Practical Takeaway:
Ask yourself today—What story am I living by? What does my calendar say? My spending? My scrolling habits? My prayers? Wherever your answers take you, know this: Jesus meets us right there. He invites you into a better way to live. Follow Him.