Ultimate SUCCESS

Success is defined as “the fact of getting or achieving wealth, respect, or fame; the correct or desired result of an attempt; favorable or desired outcome “ http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/success

This is typically MAN’S Measure of Success: The fine home; the luxury cars; the six-figure income; lavish vacations & world travel; designer clothes & accessories; tons of money in the bank.

However, what is interesting is that some of the wealthiest people in the world are the loneliest and saddest people in the world.

The Bible warns against valuing earthly riches more than God.

1 Timothy 6:17 (NKJV): “Command those who are rich in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy.”

Matthew 6:19-22 (NKJV): “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

One of my favorite poems is from Ralph Waldo Emerson:

“Success”

To laugh often and much;

To win the respect of intelligent people

and the affection of children;

To earn the appreciation of honest critics

and endure the betrayal of false friends;

To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others;

To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child,

a garden patch or a redeemed social condition;

To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.

This is to have succeeded.

Our Ultimate Success, as Christians are highlighted in:

John 14:1-3 (NKJV): [Words from Jesus] 14“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.”

Matthew 25:21(NKJV):“…‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ “

Revelation 2:10 (NKJV): “…Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.”

What measure of success are you striving for…Man’s or God’s?