Success : what is it?

Most people define success as acquiring wealth and achieving goals, prestige, favour and power. "Successful" people enjoy the good life - being financially and emotionally secure, being surrounded by admirers, and enjoying the fruits of their labours. They are leaders, opinion makers, and trendsetters. Their example is emulated, their accomplishments are noticed. They know who they are and where they are going, and they stride confidently to meet their goals. By these standards, Jeremiah was a miserable failure. For 40 years he served as God's spokesmen to Judah; but when Jeremiah spoke, nobody listened. Consistently and passionately he urged them to act, but nobody moved. And he certainly did not attain material success. He was poor and underwent severe deprivation to deliver his prophecies. He was thrown into prison and into a cistern and he was taken to Egypt against his will. He was rejected by his neighbours, his family, his audience, false priest and prophets, and the kings. Through his life, Jeremiah stood alone, declaring God's messages of doom, announcing the new covenant, and weeping over the fate of this beloved country. In the eyes of the world, Jeremiah was not a success. But in God's eyes, Jeremiah was one of the most successful people in history. Success as measured by God, involves obedience and faithfulness. Regardless of opposition and personal cost. Jeremiah faithfully proclaimed the word of God. He was obedient to his calling. (Life application Bible)