Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” Luke 12:15 NIV
People measure success in life by what matters most to them. That means some evaluate their standing by wealth, social status, or prestige, whether they are married or single, well known, or obscure. Maturity hopefully turns most people toward internal well-being instead of external achievements Those people will evaluate their success on things like personal happiness, quality of relationships, personal growth in intentional areas, or the ability to spend time doing what they love. But those who truly understand what matters most shift their focus from the treasures and priorities of this world to the things that matter forever. Things God prizes. They measure life by who they become and how well they steward their resources for God. They daily trade the opportunity to accumulate wealth, honor, or possessions to pursue developing Christ-like character and serving God in this world. These persons choose to live for God rather than the world, and that embodies truly living.
Living in this way has three major elements. First, it requires that we steadfastly resist the temptation to accumulate. Culture encourages us to base our security on what we gather, and the material world can begin to rule our hearts. Eventually it destroys our moral and spiritual peace.
Second, living this way demands daily attention to becoming like Christ. A successful life God’s way concerns our character, not our resume. We are “transformed through the renewing of our minds” (Romans 12:1) as the fruit of the Spirit grows in our lives. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are Christ-like qualities that mark a successful life. We carry these into eternity with us.
Then, this life is measured by using our resources (time, talent, and possessions) to fulfill God’s unique assignment for us, building His Kingdom. Paul expressed this priority in his own life: “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me” (Acts 20:24 NIV). This is the ultimate life and legacy. It’s the true measure of a life.
- A sign on the wall in my childhood home said, “Only one life will soon be past. Only what is done for Christ will last.” Help me recognize this with joy and make the choices that add up to the great life and legacy You desire for me.