As a little girl, I always pictured myself making a lot of money, living in a mansion, raising a perfect family. Many people have similar dreams, but at what cost? The Bible says, "What does it profit a man (or woman) to gain the whole world, but lose his (or her) soul?" (Matthew 16:26, Mark 8:36). That question became very real to me when I had attained success by worldly standards, but found myself deeply depressed. How was it that I could set a goal, reach that goal, have everyone I love be proud of me, and yet still feel empty? That's when I knew what gaining the world and losing your soul meant. I hadn't done anything wrong per se, I just hadn't achieved what God had for me.
Deep inside, we know what we need to do to enhance our spiritual walk. We know what our heart desires for our relationships with God and those around us. We know there is a path that we should take in our career. But, rather than focus on those things, we might focus on what others want for us or on what we think others want from us. We get heavily involved in ministries that God didn't send us to, rather than spending more intimate time with Him, building our relationship. We settle for a mate that isn't right for us and isn't God-sent in order to avoid becoming a spinster, rather than waiting on God. We take a job with a huge paycheck, or even just one with a steady paycheck, rather than pursuing our dreams, making some sacrifices and trusting God to provide so that we can turn our passions into ministry for the good of His Kingdom. Personal success is not about gaining idol worship from others. It is not about amassing piles of money, clothes, and "bling." Personal success should be measured by how well we integrate God's desires for us into every facet of our daily lives. And, whether or not, He will be able to say, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." Ms. EV
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