Back to the Bible CEO Arnie Cole, once a fabulously successful entrepreneur whose affluence fueled a me-first lifestyle, learned a profound truth the hard way—people who serve people experience blessing upon blessing. Facing imminent death as his small ship was in danger of sinking during an ocean storm, Cole made a “foxhole” promise to God—“If you will save me, I will live my life for others, not myself, from this point on.”

He made good on his promise after his life was spared. And as he pivoted his life to serving others, he experienced what research has proven, over and over—life satisfaction for those over 50 is directly tied to an outward-focused, spiritually driven purpose in life.

When older adults pivot from their pursuit of self-serving comforts to other-centered adventures, they experience a life filled with impact, purpose, and deep, deep satisfaction. A Chinese proverb captures the power of this pivot: “If you want happiness for an hour, take a nap. If you want happiness for a day, go fishing. If you want happiness for a year, inherit a fortune. If you want happiness for a lifetime, help somebody.”

Using new research, theological exploration, and real-life examples, Cole and co-author Rick Lawrence explore the life-changing possibilities and practicalities of an other-centered life.