The 80/20 rule, or Pareto Principle, states that roughly 80% of results come from 20% of causes, highlighting that a small number of inputs often yield the majority of the output. Discovered by Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto, it’s used in business and personal life to identify and focus on the most impactful efforts to improve overall efficiency and outcomes.

The phrase “showing up is 80% of success” is a quote attributed to Woody Allen. It was in reference to people who said they wanted to write a novel or movie. The people who actually do it are already 80% on their way to achieving something.   

It emphasizes that the act of consistently being there and putting in the effort is more crucial than extraordinary talent or elaborate plans. I thought about writing a book for years that never came to fruition. As of this writing, I have published 136 posts on https://chaplainjerry.com.

While the phrase “showing up” can imply various actions, biblical passages encourage being present, consistently faithful, and actively participating in community. Hebrews 10:25 encourages not forsaking “meeting together” to “exhort one another”.

However, James 1:22 urges believers to “be doers of the word, and not hearers only,” emphasizing action over mere presence. Finally, Matthew 5:16 speaks to how believers’ “good works” should be seen, showing that their presence can glorify God.

This verse highlights the importance of consistent presence within a community, whether it’s a hospital visit, or a group of friends. Matthew 5:16, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

You won’t always have the right answers and most of the time you’ll have no idea on what to say or do, but show up. God will give you the words as He sees fit when the time comes. We were never called to be a “know it all.” We are called to serve others. We are called to love.

Philippians 2:3-8: This passage is about serving others and having a humble mindset, reflecting Christ’s own example. It encourages believers to “show up” by looking out for the interests of others, not just their own.

This verse also illustrates that showing up and letting your actions, even small acts of kindness, be visible, can bring glory to God (1 John 4:19). It’s a response to Jesus’ own act of showing up and loving us, which should inspire us to love and serve others.

Regardless, at the end of the day, we must remember that Jesus first showed up for us. If Jesus hadn’t shown up, we would have been doomed. We would be left to die in our sin. We would be headed towards a terrible destination. But the good news is, He did show up, in full glory.

Not 80/20, but 100%. Only He has no limitations. Aren’t you glad about it?