Views of what brings comfort and signifies success are not always the same. The world often defines success as being comfortable with what they presently have. The one who has much and is living comfortably is the one who is often labeled successful. Perhaps that was how the neighbors of the rich farmer of Jesus’ parable could have viewed him. His need to tear down his barns to build bigger barns for storing his bounty (Luke 12:16-18) could have been the thing his fellow farmers wanted to imitate. There is no sign of accusation of him having gained his wealth by dishonest or oppressive means. Therefore, the secret to his success could have been something for others to seek out. Perhaps others could have been eagerly awaiting the publication of his book “Ten Steps To Successful Barn Filling” so they could build their own fortune and share the experience of his comfortable lifestyle of being able to “relax, eat, drink, be merry” (Luke 12:19) with all that was laid up for many years. How readily some could have declared, “Now, that’s the life!” However, that is not what Jesus said. Prior to Jesus telling this parable He gave the clear reason for it.
We read. . .
“(15) And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”” (Luke 12:15 ESV)
Where do we find comfort? Is it in the amount of “stuff” we possess? Is that how we have defined life and what marks success in it? It’s possible to find comfort here in this realm that may keep us from the eternal comfort yet to come. (note Jesus’ statement in the story of the rich man and Lazarus in Luke 16:25) Is real comfort not found in being right with God? Do we not have a great sense of comfort knowing our sins are completely forgiven. Can we find immense comfort in the view that even in the midst of life’s challenges and unknowns we know an eternal inheritance has been reserved for us? Such an attitude can be the sign we are truly “rich toward God.” (Luke 12:21)
Let us be careful we’re not sidetracked by a worldly view of comfort and success. When our life is required of us (Luke 12:20) what will we have to show for it? Will it merely be marked by worldly wealth or that of being “rich in good works” (1 Timothy 6:18) and a life that is “rich toward God”? If we are defining success God’s way, we will find the true and lasting comfort He desires us to experience. May that be the life of which we are seeking to take hold.
Have a great day FOLLOWING GOD’S STEPS TO LIFE FULFILLING!
Carl
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