For Christians, success cannot be measured simply by money. It’s not about becoming the richest or most famous, but about using the talents God has given us to the best of our ability. 1 The person doing the most with what he’s got is the one who is truly successful.
How do you do that?
When King David was about to die, he gave his son, Solomon, the following advice: “Do what the Lord your God commands and follow his teachings. Obey everything written in the Law of Moses. Then you will be a success, no matter what you do or where you go.” 2 David’s formula for success was to follow God and obey Him, which required effort on Solomon’s part.
Effort?
It turns out that work is highly valued throughout the Bible. Genesis describes how in the very beginning, God worked for six days to create the world, and when He determined that He had done a good job, He took pleasure in the outcome. 3 Jesus said that He had come to accomplish the works of His Father. 4 And we’re told that the work we do on earth will be tested and rewarded by God. 5
So the harder you work, the more successful you’ll be?
Not guaranteed. But in any case, Jesus doesn’t want our work to cause us to feel pressured or stressed. He said, “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” 6
What if we’re already feeling stressed?
He can help with that too! “The Lord gives strength to those who are weary. Even young people get tired, then stumble and fall. But those who trust the Lord will find new strength. They will be strong like eagles soaring upward on wings; they will walk and run without getting tired.” 7
The above questions and more are covered in the articles in this issue. I hope you enjoy reading them.