by Dr. Charles Stanley
Sunday July 16, 2006
God Desires Your Success
God wants you to be successful. This does not mean He has an automatic plan for you to become rich or famous, although either of these may be included in His ultimate design for your life.
God's idea of success begins at the Cross where Jesus died. Success is not measured by what you do in life or what you gain financially. Your love and devotion to Jesus Christ measure your success.
In 1 Samuel 15, we read how Saul decided he would offer a sacrifice that only God's anointed priest was commissioned to offer. Since Samuel was not present, Saul felt justified in his actions and made the sacrifice himself.
This one act of disobedience cost Saul the kingdom. Here is a lesson we need to learn if we are going to be successful. God anoints certain people to do certain things. He has placed leaders in our lives for a reason. If we want to lead, we must first learn to follow.
If you fail to submit to your God-given authority, then success from God's perspective will be difficult to achieve.
A successful person has learned humility to the point that he no longer thinks about whether he has gained it or not.
We are called to do the will of God, but this only can be done at the feet of Christ.
As we celebrate our freedom this month, let us remember the roots from which our country was established. Dr. Stanley teaches in America at the Crossroads, that while a Christian's ultimate citizenship is in heaven, followers of Christ must help guide our nation back onto a godly course before it's too late. Order your copy here.
Summer Renewal Kit
Have you found yourself so busy with life that you are missing the little moments when God would like to meet with you? Let the Summer Renewal Kit help you slow down... You will be surprised how these little moments with God can renew, recharge, and refresh your spirit! Order your Summer Renewal Kit here.
Free online resource - Learn & Grow!
You are a unique individual specially designed by God. Are you enjoying true freedom in Christ? Log on to www.charlesstanleyinstitute.com and learn how you can live for God while still allowing your personality to shine through. Dr. Stanley’s free lessons include Your Identity in Christ, Knowing God, and Life in the Spirit.