Thus says the Lord: “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, let not the mighty man glory in his might, nor let the rich man glory in his riches; but let him who glories glory in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord, exercising Lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight,” says the Lord. Jeremiah 9:23, 24.
In the ways of the world, success is for the most part measured by three standards: wisdom, power, and wealth. The “successful” demonstrate insights that influence others (wisdom), grasp strategic advantage over others (power), build and control resources (wealth).
Yet in these verses, we see that God says these attainments hold no weight with Him and true success is measured by our knowledge of Him (Vs.24). Both “understand” and “know” contain the idea of finding out something through the process of seeing (Job 42:5). To know God is to encounter Him (2 Cor. 3:16-18); to receive “revelation” as through the Scriptures, He implants His thoughts into our minds (1 Cor. 2:9-12).
In our pursuing of this “Knowing,” beyond the veil in communion with Him as His character engulfs us with the holy wonder of a God who passionately desires intimate friendship with those whom He has created in His image.
Chris
Feb 20, 2013 @ 03:57:14
This is an excellent description of the difference between success in the world’s eyes and success in God’s eyes.
May God help me to discriminate between the two.
God’s blessings my friend…
Mannyr
Feb 21, 2013 @ 15:04:36
Yes, I include myself in that statement.