First Things FirstSample

EYES ON THE PRIZE  

How do you define success? According to the dictionary, success is "meeting, or achieving a desired outcome." Therefore, success is measured by our achievements, accomplishment, or talents. This often translates to money, fame or power. But, how does GOD define success? 

God defines success as fulfilling His will and purposes in our lives. Based upon this definition Jesus was the most successful person to ever live, being the only one to have perfectly fulfilled God’s will. So, how exactly did Jesus live? 

1. Jesus put His Father first. 

2. Jesus never lost sight of His mission. 

Jesus’ entire purpose was to bring humanity - us - back to God. He wanted as many people as possible to experience God’s grace and forgiveness. But, the disciples didn’t always get it. 

In Mark, we read that as Jesus went to spend time with God, putting God first, the disciples begin to worry. When Jesus returned, Peter had a few concerns: “Everyone is looking for You,” he says. Now what Peter is really saying is, “Jesus, where have you been? There are 200 people outside looking to be healed! We have the largest church in the region and the momentum is really taking off! Let’s stay focused and get to work.” (My paraphrase). 

But Jesus, having spent time with God, remains focused on His mission and tells Peter that it’s time to move on. Yes, miracles are important, ministry is important, helping is important, but nobody’s heart is changed by miracles alone. Jesus remained focused on His calling by staying connected to God, even in the face of His disciples’ good intentions. This is how He was successful. 

Our lives are full of distractions: family, friends, work, obligations, hobbies. Not all distractions are bad, but if we aren’t careful we can lose sight of God’s purpose for our lives. So how do you define success? Is the success you’re seeking only temporary, or is it an eternal success that lasts? May each of us BE SUCCESSFUL – God’s way!