What is success?

Webster’s Definition of success: the accomplishment of an aim or purpose. 

Success, we all want to be successful, but how do you view success? The Bible is very clear of what success really is. Proverbs 16:3 “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established,” The word “commit” means to entrust, roll over, or give something to God’s care.

When I was young, I always thought success was measured by how much wealth you had, and the degrees from going to college. The size of the house you lived in, the car you drove. But as I got older and more mature in Christ, I realized that success was about handing over your life completely to God and seeing what He will do with a surrendered life. The World will always promote an opinion that says, “You’re not successful unless you have _________” But the truth of the matter is that we can obtain everything that this world has to offer and still be empty. What is your aim? Is it to be seen as successful in front of others? 

“When we commit our work to ourselves, our own plans will fail. “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” -Proverbs 16:9 ESV

Most of the time, we commit our thoughts or plans to the Lord, then commit our works to Him. But Solomon in the book of Proverbs reversed that order; to first commit our works, then trust that our plan will be established. Are you committing your work to Him? Have you prayed and asked God for guidance? Or is it something you want to do, and no one else will tell you otherwise?

Here are but just a few who handed over there work to the Lord, and seen the plans that God had for them.

• Abraham: Believed God’s promise, trusted Him, and became the “father of many nations,” demonstrating faith as a foundation for success.
• Moses: Led Israelites out of slavery, received the Law, and guided his people, achieving monumental goals even if he didn’t enter the Promised Land himself.
• David: A shepherd who became Israel’s greatest king, known for bravery (defeating Goliath), musical talent, military success, and repentance, establishing Jerusalem as the capital.
• Solomon: Known for immense wisdom and wealth, building the first Temple, and ushering in a golden age for Israel.
• Joseph: Rose from slavery to power in Egypt through integrity, foresight (saving nations from famine), and forgiveness.
• Paul: A tireless missionary who spread the Gospel across the Roman world, using strategic preaching and writing influential letters, turning suffering into strength.
• Nehemiah: A visionary leader who motivated his people to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls under difficult circumstances.
• Daniel: Remained faithful in exile, interpreting dreams and serving kings, demonstrating wisdom and unwavering devotion. 

All of these men were empty vessels, allowing God to pour into them. It’s amazing to see the fruit of a surrendered life compared to a life that wants to establish their own way. 

APPLICATION

The Word is the best success manual. Read it, obtain it and apply it. The World view of success is not of the Kingdom’s view of success, work with God, not against Him, put Him first in all things and watch what He can and will do (Matthew 6:33).