The Successful Christian: Keys to Good Success

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Success is the goal of many men and women. Regardless of the venue (work, sports, relationships, hobbies, etc.), people desire to achieve. The world is full of driven men and women who set their eyes on success and did not allow anything to stop them. Some of the most powerful companies began with individuals who had nothing but success on their minds.

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Josh 1:8 (KJV)

As Christians, we have to evaluate our motivation in this life. Though we should strive for success in as many areas of life as possible, we should have the greatest ambition to be successful in our Christian walk. After we have gone back to school, acquired substantial occupations, and managing family relationship and endeavors, we have to remember that the ultimate quest is to become a successful Christian. How can this be done?

And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him. Col 3:10 (KJV)

It can be done through an inner transformation. The very conscience of the Christian has to be renewed in the knowledge of God. This can be achieved by adhering to His Word. The Christian is cleansed as he takes heed to the Word.

Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. Psalms 119:9 (KJV)

In our beginning verses, God speaks to Joshua and gives him keys to success. The main key is to remember the Law or the word of God. If we are to have success as Christians, we have to allow the word of God to govern our lives, perspectives, and consciences. In doing so, we can maintain a vibrant relationship with Christ while we accomplish certain tasks and goals. God is not opposed to the Christian’s success in life, but desires that one does without sacrificing their relationship with Him.

Get Over It!: Moving Forward in Your Christian Journey

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Most people struggle with their personal histories. It is a known fact. Many live in regret wishing they could go back and change the past or relive the past. Neither of these are beneficial or practical if one wants to progress in life. In the book of Joshua, God was ready for Israel to go into their land of promise. However, they were too busy mourning over Moses. So, He sent His word to Joshua for he and the people to arise; that is, get over it.

Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. Josh 1:2 (KJV)

In our lives, there are situations that consistently stunt us from progressing in our relationship with Christ. Yet, the time is now to get over them. Regardless of the source of your frustration, it is not the intent of God for you to be frustrated and restrained by them. There are two areas that many need to get over.

Get over Past Hurts. No one likes to be hurt, rejected, and ridiculed. However, they are a part of life. Individuals have been hurt by family, friends, and members of the church. Though it is painful, one must forgive, develop “amnesia,” and move on. When Peter asked Jesus about forgiveness, Jesus challenged his sensibilities in His response.

Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Matt 18:21-22 (KJV)

Jesus said this in light of the magnitude of offenses that can occur in life. In many instances, the offenders have moved on, so why don’t you. Allow God to heal those areas so you can be free.

Get over Past Failures. Everyone fails and makes mistakes. It is no reason to give up on yourself. God will never leave you, even if you have failed in your walk with Him. Many need to forgive themselves. Understand that you cannot change what has been done, but you can affect what shall be done. As Paul wrote to the Philippians, he penned these famous words,

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:13-14 (KJV)

We are reminded that everyone is striving. Therefore, we must forget things in the past that can hinder and frustrate us. We cannot allow fear of the past or future to stop us from pushing and moving forward in Christ.

Get up from your dead situations. Get over things you cannot change, including  things about yourself. And, pursue Christ and His will for your life. Remember, Christ came to give you life and that to the fullest.

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