You Were Made for This: Redefining Hustle to Love Well and Live Boldly by Erin Harrigan

by Rachael Adams | May 13, 2025 | The Love Offering Guest Blog Series

Sister, can I lean in close and tell you something powerful? You have something to offer. Your contribution—right where you are—matters more than you know. In a world shouting for performance and perfection, it’s easy to believe the lie that hustle is the only path to significance. But friend, there’s a better way—a Kingdom way. One that begins with redefining hustle through four intentional keys: Define, Direct, Discipline, and Develop.

Let’s unpack how these keys help us live out God’s love, identify the needs around us, and boldly show up for His glory.

Define: Know Whose You Are and What You’re Here For

The first key to redefining hustle is Define. It’s about anchoring your identity in Christ, not in your to-do list or the world’s applause. “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…” (1 Peter 2:9). When we understand Whose we are, we no longer hustle for worth—we walk in it. This clarity opens our eyes to see that while we’re in the world and not of it (John 17:16), we were placed exactly where we are and in this time by a loving and purposeful Father. Your presence in this world is no accident. You are the hands and feet of Jesus.

Direct: Stay Rooted in God’s Direction

Once you’re clear on your identity, the second key is Direct. We let God’s Word lead. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5–6). He is our Great Positioning Shepherd (GPS) and when we abide in Him, He shows us the needs around us—the friend who’s struggling, the coworker who’s discouraged, the neighbor who just needs kindness. His direction is always the best path, and when we walk in step with Him, we’re in the best position to be salt and light, in a bland and dark world.

Discipline: Obey with Joyful Surrender

The third key, Discipline, is about choosing obedience, even when it’s hard. “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace…” (Hebrews 12:11). This isn’t about striving—it’s about surrender. It isn’t about overachievement, it’s about intentional action. And it starts with the discipline of seeking Him first (Matthew 6:33) to be filled with the fullness of God. When you’re filled with His love, grace and mercy, you’re able to pour it out freely, without burnout or bitterness. Surrender gives space for the Spirit to move through you.

Develop: Grow Boldly for His Glory

The fourth key is Develop. This is the journey of growth, refinement, and bold obedience. “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16). As Holy Spirit develops your heart, your courage, and your gifts, you become a living vessel of His love. You start seeing your everyday life as Kingdom territory. Your yes matters. Your obedience echoes beyond what you can see.

So today, be encouraged: you don’t have to hustle to matter more. You simply need to show up surrendered, eyes open to the needs around you, and a heart full of God’s love. Let Him use your life to love well and live boldly. You were made for this time and this life. Let Him lead you.

Erin Harrigan

About the Author:

Erin Harrigan is a Christian speaker, author, and Biblical business coach for high-achieving Christian women in business and the boardroom. Through private and group coaching, speaking, podcasting, and writing, Erin empowers sisters in Christ to redefine hustle to navigate success with Jesus. Erin hosts the award-winning podcast, Redefining Hustle: Navigating Success as a Christian Woman, and her books include: Pursuing Success God’s Way: A Practical Guide to Hustle with Heart (in print and audiobook), The Redefining Hustle Journal: 90 Days To Define, Direct, Bring Discipline To, and Develop Your Business With God, We Lead: Building Connection, Community, and Collaboration for WOMEN IN BUSINESS, Volumes 1 & 2 (contributing author).