Success is defined as the accomplishment of an aim or purpose, the attainment of popularity or profit, a person or thing that achieves desired aims or attains prosperity.

From this definition we see the overriding monetary tones. We often measure success by the amount of money in the bank, someone’s home or car, educational achievement, the accolades for what has been accomplished in life, or the nature of a gift.

Realizing there is some overlap with the ideas expressed above, perhaps the thought should not be about “what” determines success, but “who?”

Jesus pointed out that if someone gains the whole world and loses their soul, this type of success is not worth it.

When God is the One who determines success, then we know we are on the right path. Could we possibly measure success by a strong Christian family, leading a soul to Christ, helping someone in need, giving hope to the hopeless, lending a hand to a friend, growing in our knowledge of God’s word, and developing a close relationship with Him through prayer?

Maybe, if we begin here, our measuring device of success will change.