Who doesn’t want to be successful? I certainly do. Successful in my calling. Successful in marriage. Successful in parenting. The word “successful” means that things turn out the way you want them to turn out. Your dreams come true. Your hopes are realized.  The challenge with success is not the desire to be successful. The challenge centers around the paths we take to reach the desired destination.

Today’s proverb says it like this:

Proverbs 3:1-2
My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments, for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you.

The Bible is clear that lasting success is ultimately from God. It is both measured and experienced in our relationship with him. We can achieve a semblance of accomplishment on our own, but without God, our efforts are built on sand. The foundation is shaky on the best days and washed away when the storms hit.

One day, all human achievements will be left behind to rot and rust. Lasting success from God will be celebrated throughout eternity.

Father, I want to be successful in your eyes. I do not want my life investments to rot and rust. I want you to use me for eternal purposes. Give me the desire to be successful by your strength and in your way.
For Christ’s sake.
Amen.