(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
How did the family you grew up in define success? For some, success is getting into the right schools. For others, success is making lots of money. Depending on the family, some may define success as getting married and having children. Whatever it may have been, the understanding of success you received from your family of origin likely impacted your life decisions in a significant way.
Sadly, many definitions of success are not in alignment with the Scriptures. Our cultural definitions are more about prestige, power, wealth, and one’s personal (or family) name then they are about the prestige, power, and strength of God. Even those who grew up in a good, godly family are consistently tempted to achieve their own understanding of success rather seek out a purely Scriptural understanding.
In the Gospel of John, the author summarizes what success looks like for followers of Jesus: He [God] must become greater; I must become less (John 3:30). Without a doubt, this is an upside down view of success. But it’s the invitation God provides all His people. Don’t be successful by your standards. Be successful by Mine.
READING & PRAYERS:
JOHN 3:22-36 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: Consider at least one area in your life in which God may be inviting you to surrender your understanding of success over to Him.
DIGGING DEEPER: Write out a list of what you think it means to be successful in God’s eyes. If possible, include scripture references for each item on your list.
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, today’s reading has helped me recognize that while my family of origin didn’t specifically talk about what it means to be successful, there were expectations and attitudes which conveyed what was successful and what wasn’t. Help me to remember that to be successful is to be surrendered fully to You. Reveal to me the areas in my life which need to decrease, so that You may increase. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
south ridge blog 