- 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 (NKJV)Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air.
- 27 But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.
I’m almost finished with our series on the definition of success: one more to go after today. Today’s definition goes like this: To finish the course that my Lord has laid out for me with integrity and with a good name.
Have you ever heard of Elias Hasket Derby? I suspect not. He lived from August 16, 1739 – September 8, 1799 and is famous for being America’s first millionaire – and brother, that was back when a million was a million!
But hey, life moves on and Mr. Derby, who was very important in his day, is now just a footnote in the annals of history.
I highlight this to remind you to not get so consumed in today’s success that you forget to focus on how you want to finish this life. Remember, you are preaching your own funeral now. It really doesn’t matter what the preacher says over you – the people listening know the truth.
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For extra credit: An exercise that I practice has helped me with today’s definition. I define what success will look like for me at a certain age in the future. I have picked two dates: Age 70 and Age 80. About once a week I go back and review and tweak my definition.
I have found that doing this helps me. Remembering what success will be for me when I’m 70 & 80 (Lord willing) really puts a different perspective on things today.
Perhaps this would be a good exercise for you.
The ONE THING 