DEFINING SUCCESS

     The god of this world, with his entrapments of the lust of the
flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life, confuses many as to
what success is. The confusion is not about what the word means, but
has to do with the fact that success applies to specific areas. It is
possible to be a success in one area and a failure in another area.
     The successful athlete may be a business failure. The successful
executive may be a failure as a husband or father. The successful
family man may be a failure as a musician or artist.
     The fact that one has a lot of money, or is a great success in
some field of endeavor, is by no means the equivalent or a successful
life. Al Capone was a successful crook (at least for a long time), but
he was a failure. Adolph Hitler was a success in conquering countries
and killing millions of people. But, who would say that his life was a
success?
     We all need a clear view of what makes life itself a success. Here
it is: "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: fear God and
keep His commandments: for this is the whole (duty) of man"
(Ecclesiastes 12:13).  The "whole" suggests the fulness or
completeness; the success and blessedness of man. It is in fearing God
and keeping his commandments that each one of us shall attain unto
success. The only success that truly matters. It matters not how much
success we may attain in this world, it is all for naught if we have
not been successful as an obedient servant of our Lord.
     Your life, dear reader, is a success to the extent that you obtain
the approval of your God. Love God with all your heart. Jesus said, "If
you love me, you will keep my commandments" (John 15:10-14).  Therein
is success.
           (--Jack Thompson, preacher for White Park church of Christ)

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