When outgoing U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy bade farewell, he offered a final prescription for healing a fractured society. His message, surprisingly aligned with biblical values, urges Americans to prioritize relationships, service, and purpose. In a world that often values wealth, fame, and individual achievement, Murthy’s prescription provides a powerful antidote: true fulfillment in living for something greater than ourselves.

Relationships are the Heartbeat of Well-Being

Murthy’s father grew up in rural India and experienced life in a true community. In a village without running water or electricity, the villagers thrived by supporting each other. They knew each other’s stories and cared for one another like family. When Murthy’s father lost his mother at a young age, it was his neighbors who stepped in, becoming surrogate parents. For him, that sense of community was indispensable.

Despite having fewer material goods in India, he never felt like he lacked because the sense of belonging was so strong. It wasn’t until he left the village and moved to the west that he felt like something was missing.

Most Americans feel the opposite —isolated. Our culture of individualism leaves people longing for connection. Murthy argues that we need shared experiences and stronger bonds like his father experienced —and the Bible agrees. Relationships where people care for one another and support each other in joy and hardship are what the Bible prescribes for a healthy community where everyone thrives together.

Service Creates a Sense of Purpose

Murthy also emphasized the importance of service as essential to well-being. Service connects us to others and gives our lives meaning. Whether it’s helping a neighbor, volunteering, or simply listening, acts of service offer something that wealth and status never can: a sense of purpose.

Jesus Himself set the example, demonstrating that he didn’t come to be served but to serve. Murthy affirms that, when we serve others, we step outside of ourselves and contribute to the greater good. This creates a sense of fulfillment that does not come from personal achievement but from knowing that we’ve made a difference in someone else’s life.

Service also strengthens our bonds with others, deepening our connections and fostering a community spirit. It’s a simple, powerful way to combat the loneliness and disconnection that plagues so many today.

Prioritize Living for What Matters

Finally, Murthy highlighted the need for better priorities. In a society obsessed with fame, wealth, and power, he calls for a shift away from such fleeting pursuits. He encourages everyone to build a life that truly matters, filled with relationships, service, and making a difference in the world.

This isn’t a new idea. The Bible was the first to “prescribe” this for our lives. Ephesians 2:10 tells us that “…we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works.” Scripture affirmed long ago that true fulfillment does not come from chasing earthly success, but from living according to scriptural principles that please God —loving others, living in service, and fulfilling God’s plan for our lives.

The Bible’s Prescription for a Better Life

Murthy’s parting prescription for America was clear: focus on relationships, service, and purpose. These aren’t just buzzwords — they’re the foundation for a healthier, happier, and more connected society. Murthy’s message isn’t a trend; it’s a timeless truth. True happiness doesn’t come from wealth or fame, but from a life rooted in love and purpose. For Bible-believing Christians, that means loving others, sharing the Gospel, and living out God’s plans for our lives.