What is Real Life and who Defines Real Success?
Real life is full of distractions from our purpose. We drive to work, shower, shave, eat, clean, work – how do we manage all of this? We can have an ideal purpose, goals, and desires, but real life can get in the way. You must make a conscious decision on how you’re going to live. In this session we evaluate Daniel’s decision to serve God regardless of cost, and relate this story to our life. We discuss who defines success for us; we are challenged to consciously think about our biggest, deepest fears, and to share life experiences to encourage one another.
http://www.woodlandoaks.org/audio/01-30-13%20Wed%20Bible%20Class%20-%20David%20Sparks.mp3
So many times we don’t “deserve” what happens, but our perception of events can make or break us. We can either rise above our circumstances or let them weigh us down. We can either be bitter or better. Daniel is a good example of being better, no matter the cost. God is the only thing that matters, the only thing that lasts. Our lives here are so short and small, eternity is forever. That’s so hard for us to comprehend.
It’s in the lions den that we really realize how real God is. We need to be thankful for the lions den and not shy away from hard times.
I like your point about knowing in advance what you would do in situations. Reminds me of the country song that says “you’ve got to stand for something or you’ll fall for anything”. Know what you believe and why you believe it.
There’s so much here to comment on. Great post- thanks for sharing.
Wow TC – what glowing comments, thank you! I like the idea of “bitter or better”. Great phrase! Thanks for listening and commenting! I’ve really enjoyed being able to teach at our congregation, and sharing it through the blog as well.