So, we all want to be a success in life right? No? Your lying! Our schools have taught us, the media has told us, society screams it at us! We need to be successful, and if we want a comfortable life then we better aim high. But what does this ‘success‘ really mean and as Christians is there a criteria for us that’s different to what the rest of the world is preaching?
To answer that I’ve put together 5 suggestions for ways to become successful in God’s kingdom…
5. be an INVESTOR
Now I’m not talking about buying shares and putting money in start up companies. I’m talking about living by the principle of putting in to get out. In the parable of the talents the trustee who hid the talent in fear of losing it was severely chastised as it would have been better to have gambled it than to sit on it doing nothing. Life is like that, to be successful is to take a risk and invest of your energy, resources and faith into something that you believe in with conviction.
4.be a SEER
“If you can see it, then you can do it” to quote R.Kelly’s ‘I Believe I can Fly’ which truly sums up the nature of vision or seeing with your mind before your eyes. Anybody can see and celebrate an idea when its done, but not all can see it in its pre-born stage. For you to birth something in this life and be successful you have to see beyond the present and into the future. Remember GOD started creating without ‘light’ so seeing in the dark is more than possible if you believe. To be successful is to see it when others can’t and most importantly, not be swayed.
3. be a SOLVER
What problem on earth are you here to solve? Jesus was more aware of his life’s purpose than anybody who ever lived. He stuck to it and refused to be derailed and distracted. When you know what problem your life will resolve as a follower of Jesus you will focus your energies. We are called to make a difference and to be of influence; you are gifted from birth with all the natural and spiritual gifts you need to fulfil your purpose and bring your spark to the world. If your life is not touching others then its’ mission failed.
2. be a GIVER
‘You give a little love and it all comes back to you’, Bugsy Malone. Such powerful words from singing kids and yet very true. To give is to love at its very DNA. The transaction of ones value to another in order to bless and enrich. If you want to be successful you need to give; of your time, your resources and most importantly your heart. Takers may seem to prosper, but they will always be limited to what they have taken. Givers will always be part of a circle that never ends as giving connects you with both people and GOD Himself. Success is really measured by how much you have contributed to the world and how richer your life is as a result which will last forever, not material things.
And at #1
1. be CONNECTED
You will never meet true success without knowing GOD and being known by Him. Your ultimate task is to live in a way that fulfils the Father’s plans for your life and live out His will. You can gain the whole world but lose your soul if you miss this point. A career won’t fulfil you, what designer clothes you’re wearing certainly won’t an neither will how many holidays abroad you can afford. When you connect to GOD through Christ you are reconnected to your true life’s purpose and the measure of success is made by the creator of the universe and not a business mogul behind a desk telling you ‘YOUR HIRED!’
Written By Antony Aris-Osula
TweetMe: @coconutprince