Chinese Congregational Church

Jaguar...Mercedes Benz...designer clothes...large and spacious home...how does one
measure success? Webster defines success as �the gaining of wealth and fame�...but, is that all it
is? Sure, success can be based upon fancy cars and large homes, but I believe otherwise.

I recall as a sophomore in high school being invited to Friday night fellowship. I thought
�sure, why not� and my life hasn�t been the same since. I quickly developed friendships and it
wasn�t until we all decided to attend a week long summer camp that my life began to change. I
remember filling out the application and as I came across the question inquiring �if I were to die
tomorrow, did I know where I was going� that I realized that I didn�t know. One of the older
high school girls took me aside and began to share the gospel. I admit, I didn�t understand all the
terminology she was using, but began to ask questions. I didn�t accept Christ as my personal
Savior at that very moment, but by the end of the summer, I knew I wanted to be a child of God.
I remember sitting alone in my room and praying and accepting Christ as my Savior that night. I
couldn�t wait to share with my fellowship group that coming Friday. After sharing with the
group, one of the gals said that all the angels in heaven were rejoicing because I was now part of
God�s family. Wouldn�t that be a awesome sight?

For those who have a personal relationship with Christ, we know there is more than fancy
cars, and large homes. Jesus says in 1 Timothy 2:9-10 that we are not to adorn ourselves with
jewelry or fancy clothes but it�s what�s on the inside that counts.

Success is teaching Sunday School and watching the students make the right choices along
the way. It�s teaching them a great lesson and watching them share that with other people. One
of the greatest joys is knowing that you�ve had a positive influence in a young person�s life and
can see God working through them. It�s knowing that you�ve made an impact whether by
example or by teaching.

Jesus commands us to share the good news...to spread the Word of all the awesome things
that Jesus has done for us. It�s not who you know or what you do, it�s the impact or impression
you leave behind. When you allow Jesus to work in your life and through your heart, it�s amazing
how things come together. Jesus does present tough times in our lives from time to time, but
those are gentle reminders that He�s there for you and waiting to spend time whether through
your fellowship group or through individual prayer.

When you are comfortable with the choices you make along life�s daily journey, and you
have a solid relationship with Jesus, that�s success.