Originally posted on 3/3/2021 at https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/how-to-really-live-out-the-bible-and-not-just-read-it.html
Success is a subjective term that can vary in definition for different people, but there is a general meaning and definition of the word that tends to be widely adopted by the current culture around us and that is very different from the biblical meaning of the same word.
One of the world’s main definitions of the word successful is “the attainment of wealth, position, honors or the like.” It’s interesting to note that each of the things listed in that definition are temporary–and chasing after temporary things is like chasing the wind. It’s futile and it can never actually be caught.
“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?” Matthew 6:25
Jesus addressed the temporal nature of the things that we typically run after in our pursuit of success, two big ones being the ability to satisfy our flesh and the appearance of wealth and status. Thankfully He also points us toward what true and lasting success really is: pursuing Him.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33
With the world’s barometer of success being based on very specific things like wealth, position, and fame, the biblical view of success can feel vague or cloudy, especially when we are in a season of obscurity. In order to see what God’s view of success is, let’s explore four important aspects of biblical success.
1. Success Is Found Within
The world’s barometer of success comes from things on the outside, but God’s view of success is found within. Read more…