March 9, 2016

Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; mediate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8

Yesterday, we looked at temptation and how it can be damaging to us. Today, I would like to take a few minutes to discuss something which gives us pleasure, success. Keep in mind, though, we enjoy success but it should not provide us with higher esteem than someone else. I believe it simply provides us with happiness that we did well in regard to a particular action.

Joshua was warned by God not to feel he was now on top of the world since he replaced Moses. This new leader simply had to feel strong and courageous because what was going to occur would be a rough task to face by himself. Joshua had to obey God as well as follow His commands and The Word.

The Bible views success is by applying God’s assistance, what we take on will be worthwhile since it is given “a stamp of approval” from the Lord Himself. “Just as a tree soaks up water and bears luscious fruit, we also are to soak up God’s Word, producing actions and attitudes which honor God. To achieve anything worthwhile, we must have God’s Word in our heart.”

If we utilize obedience, faithfulness and righteousness, then acts of showing popularity, fame or fortune will never enter our mindset. This will enable us to have God shining on us as well as knowledge that His opinion of us is more important than anyone else.

Remember, to have an important position or to illustrate prestige may feel good but they do not look good in God’s eyes nor do they have a place in His Kingdom!

Prayer: May whatever I do today bring a smile to my Savior’s eyes and a good beating of the heart knowing I have found success with His presence surrounding me. Amen.

Jeff Spang