Success to Significance

Some time ago I heard the phrase, "move from success to significance," in a promotional video for a missions' organization. A shift in the focus of Christians from success as viewed by our culture to a significant life in Christ is profoundly needed. Many times doing what God leads you to do is not going to bring you the greatest wealth, education, or status. There is nothing wrong with these things, but if they are not used for significant purposes, they are worthless. Referring to our physical needs, Christ said in Matthew 6:33, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." In Timothy Keller's book "Counterfeit Gods," he discusses several different idols that can easily take hold in our lives. Chapter four, "The Seduction of Success," clearly demonstrates the destructive nature of success as an idol in one's life. When success is our primary goal, we live lives in fear of failure instead of joy in the work God has given us. With worldly success as an idol, we can never measure up to God's standard - perfection. Keller states, "More than other idols, personal success and achievement lead to a sense that we ourselves are god, that our security and value rest in our own wisdom, strength, and performance." That, like many sins with which I struggle, is rooted deeply in pride. We must be reminded of our depravity and from where we came, so that resting in God's grace, and not our own power, is the obvious choice. When overwhelmed by the grace of God, I feel I am less likely to be discouraged by the ways I don't measure up to someone else's idea of success, whether that has to do with my career, education, or any other ability. Having pride in myself will only lead to disappointment. I find it ironic that humility can actually make me feel better in the long run than pride can.