A woman named Sarah went to visit Martin Thielen. She had marriage problems, problems with her children, and overwhelming stress in her job. He asked her what she wanted most out of life. Turns out, she wanted to be happy. After thinking for a few moments she explained further: “I make a lot of money. … Continue reading Happiness and contentment
success
The Topsy-Turvy Kingdom
In the previous devotional I highlighted Henri Nouwen’s phrase “downward mobility.”* It stands in stark contrast to modern definitions of success (including “upward mobility”) which are focused on accumulating influence and power. When I was young we would sometimes read the Mr. Men books. One of them was Mr. Topsy-Turvy. Things were very unexpected in … Continue reading The Topsy-Turvy Kingdom
Striving to do good, or to look good?
One of Jesus’ most memorable actions was washing his disciples’ feet. The one who had walked on water and turned water into wine took the posture of a servant, even a slave. Foot washing was a job normally reserved for the lowly. But that’s what he did. Consider this context which helps us appreciate his … Continue reading Striving to do good, or to look good?
Discuss your priorities
If you’re reading or listening to this, you’re probably someone who values priorities. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be subscribed to a devotional which is dedicated to keeping our focus on God. The greatest command is an articulation of priorities: “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?... The Lord our God, the Lord is one. … Continue reading Discuss your priorities
What question would Jesus ask you?
Hebrews 12:1-2: “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus…” Let’s say that you’re dead. And let’s say that you’re having a conversation with Jesus. What kind of question do you think he would ask to evaluate your success at navigating this trying chapter of life? … Continue reading What question would Jesus ask you?
“Successful” or faithful?
A university professor was at the pinnacle of his career. He had so many options and opportunities spreading out before him. But he resigned. Why? To take care of his wife who was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. I’m sure many of you already know how horrible it can be. A “friend” of his—someone who knew … Continue reading “Successful” or faithful?
When success isn’t success
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 … Continue reading When success isn’t success
A time to re-evaluate success
What if you had a faulty understanding of success? If so, you’d probably have the wrong goals. And each day you’d probably miss the mark. In Deuteronomy 8:2 Moses was speaking to the Hebrews after they had wandered through the wilderness for forty years: “Remember how the LORD your God led you all the way … Continue reading A time to re-evaluate success
What is “success”?
What is "success?" Having a good reputation? Climbing the ladder? Getting the highest marks? Being popular? Making lots of money? I have a dream. It’s that every one of you, one day in the future, when you’re lying on your death bed, can look back on your life and with humble confidence say to yourself, … Continue reading What is “success”?
Unhealthy vs healthy “success”
Success is good, right? But what is “success”? A lot of people think of it in terms of career advancement, or money, or popularity. We can even try to be “successful” when it comes to our faith. We want to be successful at praying more or reading our Bibles or serving in a particular ministry or … Continue reading Unhealthy vs healthy “success”
The Up Devotional 