Godly Success
And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? (Ex 33:15-16)
Many notable historical landmarks are defined by great successes and tragic failures. Historical battles. Historical achievements. Major breakthroughs in medicine, science, space travel, and many others. From an early age, children are encouraged to seek and achieve. Strive for success. Strive for good health, long life, financial security, social acceptance, professional status, prosperous and pleasurable living. For so many, these and other worldly achievements provide what would seem a secure foundation for a great life. Our scripture today provokes a question to be considered, “what is true success?” “What is success for a child of God?” Moses and the children of Israel had many successes following their exodus out of bondage from Egypt. Leaving out of Egypt, they brought all their families, loved ones, and great wealth. Along their journey they lacked not for food, nor clothing or protection. No enemy could withstand them. No city walls could stop them. The wealth of a promised land lay before them. What more could they want or need? Moses understood that success and achievement in life meant nothing without the Presence of God. The things they would possess and enjoy were temporal and would soon fade and pass. True success and meaning in life are found in the Presence of God. “If Thy presence go not with me, carry me not up hence.” My friend, determined not to go anywhere without God? Begin today in His presence through an eternal relationship with His Son, Jesus Christ. Walk in His presence through fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Value His presence more than the greatest achievements you could ever experience in this world. “Set your mind on things above, not on the earth” (Col 3:2). Father, thank You for the promise that “You will never leave us nor forsake us” and that You “will be with us until the end.” Lead us to delight in Your presence today. In the blessed Name of Jesus. Amen.