Depending on what we want out of life, success can mean many things and can be reached by multiple paths. Two dictionary definitions of success are to achieve a desired outcome, or to reach a goal one has set for oneself. These definitions focus on our own efforts to get money or whatever else we want, but the Bible has a whole different perspective. Worldly success is fleeting and hollow, but God wants us to have the kind of permanent prosperity and success that only come from Him.

We’ve all heard stories of rich business owners who chased after money at all costs only to lose it all, famous movie stars who committed suicide, or fabulously wealthy entertainers who were miserable and lonely. What many people go their entire lives without realizing is that true success comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ. He’s always calling us; all we need to do is accept Him. “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends” (Revelation 3:20, NLT).

Our heavenly Father wants us to succeed in every area of our lives. He wants us to prosper, not just financially, but in all other areas of our lives. God’s definition of prosperity goes way beyond money. His will for us includes a healthy body and mind, a tranquil, born-again spirit, and a peaceful family life. “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth” (3 John 1:2).

Believing that God wants success and prosperity for us positions us to receive it. Our present circumstances don’t matter at all when we let God’s love for us guide us in everything we do. We can learn from the Bible story of Joseph, who was sold into slavery but became highly successful because of God’s favor on him (Genesis 39:1-3).

Joseph could have turned bitter because of what life had thrown at him, and he could have strived through his own efforts to change his circumstances. Instead, he relied on the Lord, and God caused him to prosper in everything and become a ruler over Egypt. Joseph’s master trusted him because Joseph was honest, wise, and had a good work ethic and a godly character (Genesis 39:4-6).

Joseph knew to avoid evil deeds and do the right thing, because God’s moral law operating in him gave him wisdom. Joseph’s actions demonstrated his relationship with God. Even when others lied about him and he was wrongly accused of adultery, Joseph obeyed God’s prompting (Genesis 39:7-12). Like Joseph, even when things appear to go horribly wrong in our everyday lives, we can trust God to make everything work out.

God knows exactly what we need to live successful lives. We receive those things when we trust in Him more than in our own abilities to acquire them for ourselves. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). By putting Him first we keep a proper perspective on all the things we accumulate.

We are not the source of our success or prosperity; all the good things in life come from God. Glorifying Him instead of ourselves keeps our priorities from getting mixed up. Getting ourselves out of the way and letting Him work His will in our lives puts us on the path to true success.

For more on God’s plans for your success and prosperity, click on the link below for the four-DVD series, See Yourself Successful.