The True Measure of Success
I really wasn’t sure about writing a post this week. I’m definitely in a somber mood. Mother’s Day is just around the corner – my first Mother’s Day with both my precious mom and mother-in-law not being here.
How do I feel about it all? I cannot even define it. Sometimes it is such an empty feeling as I consider all that has been lost in my life. I had such a terrific relationship with both women. Not having them to talk to is an ache that doesn’t seem to want to go away.
At other times I can rejoice that they are in heaven and they suffer no more. If I really get my head around it, I remember that each woman has left a living legacy. Their spirits live on in us and our children. Their impact will be long lasting and far reaching
As far as today’s world goes, many would not list these women as particularly successful or influential. After all, they didn’t have a big social media following, nor have they made great inroads in the political world. They haven’t graced the stages in many cities, or gained an immense fortune from business dealings.
Yet both these women truly are the most successful people I know.
God doesn’t measure success the way the world does. For Him, who we are as His child matters more than what we accomplish in this world. My mom and mother-in-law lived lives of active faith. They knew that God looks at our hearts. They shared this faith with their loved ones.
And really, it is hugely unfair how the world defines success. Who says you have to do big and grand things to be successful? I know I have bought into that philosophy at times, thinking that I had to make my stamp on the world with big time projects or positions.
How much better to live every day with faith in our God to provide, in Jesus our Saviour, and in the Holy Spirit that guides us?
We are at our most successful when we follow God through the ordinary, mundane parts of life, sharing His love with those we meet. His presence shines through us when we do things for His glory alone, not for our own recognition.
My two dear moms were very different personalities – one quiet, one vibrant. One out with people lots, the other working quietly at home. Yet, they each were successful in their own spheres of influence.
Yes, I might be a bit glum come Mother’s Day. But, with God’s help, I can turn that around to celebrate the day with my children and consider what my role as a mom should look like. I have great models to look to.
Whether or not you are a parent or still have a parent, God knows what you need. He will love you through the challenging times and the amazing ones. He will guide you and show you the way to His success for you.
These words from Scripture define my mothers. I pray these words will be said about all of us:
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7 NIV)
That is true success!
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