June 6 2018 – Click here to listen
Years ago I was interviewed by Entrepreneur magazine and was asked, what is the formula to success? Off the top of my head I mentioned three things, but regret that I did not tell them four. The three things were as follows:
1. One must have a strong work ethic
2. One must work smart and surround themselves with smart people
3. One must persevere, because without a doubt there will be bad times in the road ahead, and one cannot be successful without having the ability to make it through bad times. Successful people know how to weather the bad times without quitting.
Had I a chance to add something I would have added that we should “delight ourselves in the Lord”. I truly believe that one cannot be successful unless they have a close relationship with the Lord.
Admittedly I define success differently than most people. My definition has nothing to do with finance, worldly possessions, powerful positions in life, fame, and other common desires of most people. Such things can be attained by those who have no interest in the Lord whatsoever. My definition is that a successful person is someone who has found peace in their life. To me there is nothing like sweet peace; a calm wonderful feeling of fulfillment. I know that this goal is not attainable apart from God. Jesus Christ wants us to be surrounded with a peace that “surpasses all understanding” and true peace like that can only from God.
I wish every non-believer could experience it just for a little while to help them understand what life can really be like when they have God and the peace He brings to their lives. He can deliver us from the chaos, uncertainty, and evil that blankets this world; money, fame, power and possessions cannot.
Jesus Christ patiently stands and waits for us to make an effort to draw close to Him. He assures us in the Bible that if we will draw close to Him, He will draw close to us. When He does He brings peace with Him.
If you are not attending church regularly, praying often, studying the Bible, and maintaining a relationship with other believers, I would bet that you are not enjoying much peace in your life. It does not have to be that way and it costs you nothing to obtain peace. Trust me; it is better than anything one could buy if they had all of the money, power, and fame that the world had to offer. Jesus is calling you softly and tenderly; wonderful peace just for the asking . . .
Psalms 37:3
Trust in the Lord, and do good;
Dwell in the land, and feed on
His faithfulness.
Delight yourselves also in the Lord,
And He shall give you the desires of your heart.