I’m still thinking about “success”. I just can’t seem to let go of it.
For most of us, we chase after success thinking we achieve it when we achieve a certain goal … perhaps number of friends on social media, or “likes”, or retweets. It may be when we hit a certain income level or title at our jobs. Or for some, not mentioning names 🙂 , perhaps it is when our scale tells us we have hit our desired weight.
Success – it really does look differently to each of us.
Dictionary.com tells me success is “achieving an outcome, the attainment of wealth or fame, triumph”.
This brought to mind a servant who was entrusted with some money, belonging to his master, for safekeeping while his master was away. He did a good job investing the money, earning double the amount. Upon his return, the master had this to say to his servant:
“Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!” (Matthew 25:21, NLT)
Sounds like the servant was successful. He was given a promotion.
We have no idea how long the master was gone on his trip. We do know for whatever the length of time, the servant was on his own. He had to work with no supervision from his master.
We can learn three things regarding success from this passage:
- Success means being “good”. This speaks of our character. We are to be … morally excellent, honorable, kind. “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.” (Proverbs 22:1, NIV)
- Success means being “faithful”. This means we are true to follow through on our word. We are reliable and can be trusted. We can be counted on.
- Success means “handling this small amount”. Whether the job is viewed big or small, we are responsible to do what we have been given. “Do not despise these small beginnings…” (Zechariah 4:10, NLT).
Here’s the thing about success ….
It doesn’t matter whether the job is big or small. If we are faithful to do the job, God views us as successful. And He invites us to celebrate with Him.
What is it He is calling you to do today?
Do it.
And let’s celebrate together!
Today I am joining … Three Word Wed. and Wedded Wed. and Wed. Prayer Girls and Whimsical Wed. and Works For Me and A Little R & R and Tell His Story .
Hi Joanne, I can’t think but that you are an example of the success you write about. Your posts are always thoughtful, on point, timely, and filled with God’s goodness and grace. You faithfully write because no message is too small – no matter how many comments, no matter what is going on in your life (you even post when you’re on vacation!). I pray that you continue to bless people with your thoughts and words.
Janet, you have no idea how much your comment has meant to me. I pray God would continue to give me the desire, and the words, to write. May He do with it as He knows best. You have encouraged me deeply! Blessings. xo
I hate to come by and simply say, “great post.” But truly . . . loved this! For one who has looked for success in the wrong places (and sometimes still do) I need encouragement like this. Thank you! And ditto to what Janet said. xoxo
It is easier than ever to look for success in the wrong places. I do think social media can become such a trap.Thank you, Beth, for your encouragement as well. May God continue to use you & your writing for His glory.
Sounds odd but I am grateful you are struggling and pondering success since I am also and appreciate your insightful words. I am a three on the enneagram which means my basic motivation is success/accomplishment. Yes that is a trap too when not defined in Godly ways. I think my lesson from your post is #3 – handle the small things. that is more important that I realize or give credit to. Thanks for your words of wisdom, Joanne
Jean, your comment brought me to tears. It was a post I hesitated to share. I am grateful the post held something for you as well. Praying this morning that any success we experience is grounded in Him. May our lives bring Him glory in the big & small. Blessings!