Striving for God's Measure of Success

Today's message is from Mike Bickle. (written in Charisma Magazine)

It’s a strange thing, but when we seek with all our hearts to do the will of God and obey Him fully, our families, friends, even people in places of spiritual authority (the very people who should know better) often misjudge and criticize us. For example, the religious leaders of His day ridiculed and opposed Jesus, and His own brothers and sisters sometimes misjudged Him. If those things happened to Christ, those who obey Him fully may expect to be misjudged as well.

Many Christians sniff in disdain at “hyperspiritual, holier-than-thou fanatics” who make good salaries but choose to live simply, pouring their resources into the kingdom of God instead of spending it on lavish lifestyles for themselves. Examples of the worldly value system that has invaded the church are all around us.

God didn’t call you or me to be “successful”; He called us to be faithful. If God calls you to become a medical doctor, you’d better do it because that’s where you will be able to fulfill His highest purposes for your life. If God gifts you to be a mechanic, an attorney, a truck driver or a teacher, then you will never be fully fruitful doing something else.

God doesn’t measure success by sacrifice, salary or university degrees; He measures it by obedience and faithfulness. The world, and even some in the church, may look at you, shake their heads and sigh, “What a waste!” But in the end you will enjoy God’s smile, His fruitfulness and His reward.

TODAY'S PRAYER:
"Lord, forgive me for measuring success in my life and in the lives of others by worldly standards. Teach me to be faithful and obedient."