A lot of people want to be “successful.”

In fact, since so many people think that success is a good thing, and since the drive for success can be so powerful, we can rationalize doing questionable things to get there.

But it’s not success if you fail at virtue.

In Colossians, Paul talks about putting to death what belongs to our “earthly nature.” He lists things like “sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry” (Colossians 3:5). He also mentions “anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language” (verse 8).

When it comes to achieving success, do you ever appeal to your earthly nature to get ahead?

In contrast, God’s people should clothe themselves with “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience” (verse 12). They should also be forgiving and loving (verses 13-14).

Think of your own goals. Do YOU want to be successful? If so, what are you willing to do to get there?

Hard work? Yes.
Truth? Yes.
Humility? Yes.
Love? Yes.

It’s not success if you fail at virtue.

By Matthew Ruttan

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.