by Joyce Dunaway @DunawayJoyce

What is your definition of success as you pursue your dreams?

Will it be when you make money, receive recognition, or when all aspects of your journey have been accomplished?

There are many definitions of success. The dictionary defines it as doing or getting what you wanted or intended.

The following quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson defines success in a different way: “To find the best in others; to give one’s self; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm and sung with exaltation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—this is to have succeeded.”

How does God define success?

Keep this book of the law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful (Joshua 1:8).

Blessed is the one whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers (Psalm 1:1-3).

In interpreting these verses Dr. David Jeremiah explains, “Those who are deeply planted in God’s Word may not be wealthy, but they will be fruitful in God’s work, which is true prosperity.” (The Jeremiah Study Bible NIV).

Following are some ways to be successful in God’s eyes as you pursue your dreams:

READ AND STUDY GOD’S WORD

These actions will keep us close to God so we can lead a Christian lifestyle and be open to His guidance in every area of our lives.

I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you (Psalm 119:11).

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path (Psalm 119:105).

SERVE

The achievement of our dreams should result in service to others which will bring glory to God.

Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).

BE GENEROUS

God is pleased when we take time to help others.

Encourage one another and build each other up (I Thessalonians 5:11).

FOLLOW GOD’S LEADING

When we pray for God’s guidance, He will lead us step by step. “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11).

I would love to hear other suggestions of how to be successful in God’s eyes as you pursue your dreams. Please share your thoughts in the section below.