True Success

As Christians, we're to exist in the world without succumbing to its influences (Phil. 2: 15). The world holds wealth, power, and prestige in high esteem. Success is somewhat of a national religion here in America, and I'm pretty sure it's the main reason for class reunions.

There's absolutely nothing wrong with having material and financial wealth as long as it doesn't have you. It had a stronger influence on the rich young ruler in Mark 10: 17-23 than his desire to serve the Lord. The rich fool in Luke 12: 13-21 was greedy. In Luke 16: 19-31 we read of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man had it good here on earth, but he had little regard for his own soul or anyone else's welfare. I don't believe for a minute that he didn't know of Lazarus' destitute condition. He just didn't care. I'm sure he would have given all he had to get out of torments, if that were possible. While here on earth though, he was apathetic and greedy. The real kicker for me is that while he was in torments, he was so self-centered that he wanted Lazarus to serve him.

Just remember, life is like a monopoly game. No matter who lost or won, when the game is over, all the pieces go back in the box. Also, I've yet to see a U-haul follow a hearse.

As God's people, we need to redefine our definition of success. The Bible has quite a lot to say about the matter.

1. Success has more to do with how you treat others than how they treat you. Be
the bigger person. Don't be so self-absorbed that you can't ask the other
how they're doing. Be willing to lose some battles with others in order to win the
war for their soul later.

A. Job. 13: 1-17
B. Mar. 9: 33-37
C. 1 Pet. 5: 5-6
D. Mt. 7: 12
E. Luk. 23: 33-34

2. Success doesn't matter about how others see you, but rather, how God sees
you. It's human nature to enjoy hearing people compliment your
accomplishments, but seek to glorify God with your successes.

A. Heb. 13: 20-21
B. Mt. 5: 8
C. Psa. 139: 23; 86: 11
D. 1 Sam. 16: 7
E. 1 Chr. 28: 9
F. Prov. 27: 19

3. Success should reflect our internal qualities--not our external circumstances.
Hollywood airbrushes celebs to give them the facade of perfection. Some buy
into the myths they see in a magazine and then put unrealistic expectations on
themselves. The world values visual aesthetics over true substance of
character.

4. How God defines success:

A. Being kind to others: Eph. 4: 32; Rom. 12: 3, 15-21; 14: 19; Jno. 14: 12-15.

B. Seeking first the kingdom: Mt. 6: 33; Eccl. 12: 13

C. Be genuine. Work to develop the Christian graces: 2 Pet. 1: 5-7;
Gal. 5: 22-26.

I would appreciate your questions and comments.