What are the common benchmarks of success in America? Bank accounts, material accumulations, achievements, attaining career goals, level of influence – these are just a sampling of the benchmarks, aren’t they? So how does God define success? Is it the same measurement?
As I’ve observed people in the Bible whom God calls successful, it’s notable that He is not at all against wealthy, influential, achieving, goal-reaching individuals. However, accomplishments alone aren’t the scale of measurement. Those who earned the success sticker from God primarily focused on God and consistently obeyed Him.
In Genesis, we read (in Chapter 39) that God considered it a sign of success when young Joseph attained great favor and powerful influence in Egypt. Joseph enjoyed success because he followed God’s direction for his life, lived with integrity and walked in humility.
In the book of Joshua, the Bible tells us that the underlying foundation of success is following God’s instructions. Joshua told his followers, “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful” (Joshua 1:8).
The point is, it seems clear that God doesn’t automatically stamp “Successful” on someone due to the same measurements we use in American culture. God looks through the lens of an eternal perspective. The Bible dares us to redefine success in higher terms than wealth, favor, and prominence. We are to pursue God’s favor and His eternal reward by leveraging our time, talent and treasure in everlasting investments.
As for me, I want my life to be measured by God’s ruler. What about you?
QUESTION: What additional measurements do you think are important to God? Share in the comment section below.
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