Imagine MoreSample

The measurement of our success isn’t how many people we reach, but how well we can help others. And when we help them, the life most changed will be our own. That’s success: loving others by doing what we do best, regardless of how many choose to receive what we’re offering. Success is continuing to offer what we have, without counting how many people show up. It’s not about what others can give us; it’s about what we can give them. That’s success, that’s love, and that’s when we know we are making a difference that matters. That’s when we know we are following God’s path for our lives.

Scripture reminds us that no matter what we do, we should work at it with all our hearts as if working for God, not for people (Colossians 3:23–24). Keeping our eyes on God’s purpose for our journey will help us avoid distracting pressures. When you look up to God, can you feel His approval? He’s not the critic that people can be, because, after all, He knows our potential and created us. He’s your biggest fan, so stick with His perspective on your work. ...

God’s economy looks differently at how we interact. The world may label us as competitors—particularly in a business arena, or any environment that pits us against each other in the effort to gain supporters or financial donors. Even the nonprofit world, with its noble humanitarian causes, can fall victim to this mindset as they feel they are competing for a limited pool of charitable donors.

What God really wants is for us to have community. Despite what the world may say, we probably have the most in common with our competitors. They are trying to do the same thing, and we probably share the same hopes and dreams. We’re like little kids fighting in the sandbox over the same toy when we’re surrounded by plenty of other toys. We could be enjoying so much more by playing together and taking advantage of more opportunities.

Prayer

Lord, please help me find a community in which I can help others while also receiving help when I need it. Amen.