In my younger years, I was consumed by pursuing worldly success. I chased after money, status, and material possessions as if acquiring things was the ultimate goal. As I grew older, I realized how empty these pursuits were. A dramatic shift occurred in my perspective, leading me to reevaluate what truly matters in life.
Let’s examine the real meaning of success so you don’t fall into the trap of worldly desires and accidentally discover a life devoid of true fulfillment.
The idea of true success is often misunderstood True success isn’t measured by luxury, social media followers, or living a lavish lifestyle filled with expensive toys and superficial relationships. This is what true success looks like from a spiritual perspective:
Daily time in God’s Word Regular Bible study connects you to the heart of God. It takes you out of your own limited understanding and places you in the mind of Christ. Many of us struggle to find time for Scripture. The Bible is long, and our schedules are packed. Those who prioritize their relationship with God have arranged their lives to spend time in His Word daily.
A peaceful spirit Ever encountered angry, stressed-out people? Often, it’s because they’ve neglected their spiritual life. Prioritizing your relationship with God gives you the opportunity to experience His peace that surpasses all understanding.
Sabbath rest Your soul needs time to reconnect with its Creator. When you’re a slave to money or success, work tends to creep into every aspect of life. Your spirit can’t fully engage with God, so your relationship with Him starts to fade. The Sabbath is for rest and worship.
A clear conscience Living according to God’s will brings a clear conscience. I’ve seen people compromise their values for financial gain, knowing what they’re doing is wrong. Prioritizing your relationship with God over worldly success helps maintain integrity in all areas of life.
Prayer walks Walking in nature while communing with God can be more spiritually refreshing than a rushed devotional time squeezed between meetings. It allows for meditation on God’s creation and His Word. Prayer walks can become a form of moving meditation, helping you draw closer to the Lord.
A family rooted in faith Those who chase after worldly success often neglect their families and spiritual lives. They may provide material comforts but fail to lead their families in faith. Time spent nurturing your family’s spiritual growth is invaluable.
“I’m not obsessed with success. I’m obsessed with knowing God.”
A wise believer
The new status symbol isn’t a luxury car or designer clothes. It’s a life fully surrendered to God. This means prioritizing your relationship with Him above all else.
A few years ago, I reevaluated my priorities. No more chasing after worldly definitions of success. No more wondering if I measured up to society’s standards. It was scary at first to let go of my worldly ambitions.
A life focused on God rather than personal achievement or acquisition. A daily routine where you actually have time to pray, study Scripture, and serve others. Now that I’ve experienced the richness of a life centered on Christ, I’m transformed.
I don’t ever want to return to my former way of living. That’s why I use whatever skills and resources I have to ensure my relationship with God remains vibrant. If my faith weakens, it’s not just my career or finances that concern me. No.
I’m concerned about losing the intimacy I’ve found with my Creator and the purpose He’s given my life.
Forget luxury status, impressive titles, and displays of wealth. Become obsessed with knowing God. It will change how you view success forever. You’ll stop chasing after things that don’t last.
Time spent with the Lord is the ultimate measure of a life well-lived. All that impresses me now is a deep, abiding relationship with God. The rest pales in comparison.
