Take a moment to write down what you believe would make you successful. What are you striving for in your life?

How do you measure whether you’re doing “well”?

Now, compare that list with what God calls success.

The world defines success by achievement, accumulation, appearance, and approval. It applauds the visible—the wealth, the influence, the recognition, the comfort. But God measures success by something deeper and often unseen: faithfulness, obedience, humility, love, and a life that reflects His glory.

Jesus encountered a man who seemed to have it all—the rich young ruler. He kept the commandments and appeared to be living a good life, but when faced with the call to surrender everything and follow Jesus, he turned away sorrowful. His hands were too full of temporary treasure to receive eternal life. Jesus asked him a question.

“What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” Mark 8:36 (NIV)

Many people have filled their lives with worldly success only to end in misery, despair, broken relationships, strained families, guilt, and shame. Achievements that once glittered lose their shine. What once felt secure becomes restless, bitter, and resentful when it’s not rooted in God. Jesus warned us about building our security on things that fade.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Matthew 6:19–20 (NIV)

Our days, and what we do with them, matter.

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 (NIV)

When we measure success by God’s standard, we stop chasing what doesn’t satisfy and start pursuing what lasts forever.

“Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare. Isaiah 55:2 (NIV)

The world will always have a definition of success. So will God. The question is—which one will you live for?

Success

How do you measure whether you’re doing “well”?

“What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” Mark 8:36 (NIV)

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Matthew 6:19–20 (NIV)

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 (NIV)

“Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare. Isaiah 55:2 (NIV)

Betrayal