Empowering Believers - Christian Resources for All Paths to Christ
The True Measure of Success: A Journey or a Destination?
Today’s inspiration is drawn from President Hartman Rector, Jr.’s enlightening discourse during April 1973. In his talk, President Rector delved into the intricate concept of success, challenging our preconceived notions and shedding light on the path to genuine happiness and fulfillment.
The Elusive Nature of Success
What is success? It’s a question that has intrigued, puzzled, and eluded humanity throughout history. Success means different things to different people. It’s a deeply personal and often misunderstood concept. The dictionary attempts to define it as “the favorable termination of a venture,” suggesting that it’s associated with risk and daring. Another definition speaks of “the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence,” a perspective that dominates modern society.
We often label individuals as successful if they appear prosperous, wealthy, or at the pinnacle of their careers. Doctors, lawyers, financiers, politicians, athletes—these are some of the professions where the term “success” is frequently applied. But is material wealth the true measure of success?
Success: A State of Mind
Success, it turns out, is more a state of mind than a destination. It’s a concept that defies a one-size-fits-all definition. Henry Clay once said he’d rather be right than president, implying that being right equates to success. Yet, he ran for the presidency three times and lost each time. This paradox tells us that success is often subjective.
The Lord’s perspective on success, as revealed in the Book of Mormon, offers a refreshing insight. It’s rooted in the pursuit of joy. In 2 Nephi 2:24-25, we find the words: “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.” According to this divine definition, success must encompass the attainment of genuine joy and happiness. Therefore, no one is truly successful unless they are happy.
Gratitude: The Key to Happiness
If happiness is the yardstick of success, then it’s essential to understand its foundation. In our pursuit of success, we often stumble upon unhappiness due to our dissatisfaction with what we have. The cure for this malady is gratitude. A happy person is invariably a thankful person. As the Prophet Joseph Smith once put it, “doubt and faith cannot exist in the same person at the same time.”
Consider this: Have you ever encountered a genuinely happy person who wasn’t thankful for what they had? Gratitude is the antidote to unhappiness. Success and unhappiness cannot coexist within the same individual.
The Illusion of Materialism
Many of us associate success with material possessions. Modern advertising relentlessly promotes the idea that happiness is contingent on accumulating more. We’re made to believe that a new house, a fancy car, or the latest gadgets will fill the void within us. But the truth is far from it.
James Russell Lowell aptly noted, “Earth gets its price from what Earth gives us.” In our quest for happiness, it’s imperative to recognize that everything comes at a price. There are no shortcuts, and “something for nothing” is a mere illusion. Life’s purpose is to teach us the universal law: as you sow, so shall you reap.
The Eternal Lesson
Life on Earth is a grand classroom where we learn this fundamental lesson—everything has its price. Pursuing ephemeral bubbles of materialism, thinking they’ll bring us happiness, is a futile endeavor. These bubbles are akin to the material possessions the world deems essential for happiness—a new house, a new car, or various luxuries.
Elder ElRay L. Christiansen shares a story of a neighbor who bought a boat using a credit card he couldn’t afford. To pay for it, he took on a second job, which left him with only one day a week to enjoy his beloved boat—Sunday. This tale humorously illustrates how our pursuit of material possessions can lead to ironic outcomes.
The True Source of Joy
The scriptures and the teachings of living prophets unequivocally emphasize where genuine happiness resides—within the family. President David O. McKay profoundly stated, “No other success can compensate for failure in the home.” This truth should resonate deeply with all of us.
President Harold B. Lee further emphasized that the most significant work we will ever do is within the walls of our own homes. Our Heavenly Father, the Father of the human family, places tremendous importance on families. We belong to Him, and He has ordained families as the foundational unit of His Church and the path to exaltation in His celestial kingdom.
Seeking Eternal Success
To achieve eternal success and happiness, the path inevitably leads to the sacred altar of the temple. In these hallowed places, families are sealed for time and all eternity, becoming “one” in the Lord’s eyes. The importance of this sacred ordinance cannot be overstated, as it ensures the continuation of family ties beyond this life.
Our Heavenly Father’s desire for us is clear: He wants us to be happy. He established families as the cornerstone of His plan. Happiness is the ultimate goal, and obedience to His commandments is the key to attaining it. Success and happiness are intertwined, and they are both found through righteousness.
Choose the Path to Happiness
As we contemplate the profound message of true success, let us reflect on our own lives. Are we pursuing materialistic bubbles or seeking the path to eternal happiness within our families? Are we grateful for what we have, or are we constantly dissatisfied with our possessions?
In a world filled with conflicting philosophies, birth control debates, and misconceptions about what leads to happiness, let us turn our hearts to the Lord and follow His living prophets. Our goal should be eternal success and joy. Link to the original: Click Here
God Is Available. He Loves You…Do You Want Help?…see Prayers Answered”
YOUR FEEDBACK IS IMPORTANT TO US!
Hi there!
Thank you for visiting our Christian Resource website. We’re building a special place here that brings Christians together from all walks of life, and your help would be great!
What we need from you are suggestions. Ideas for things we can include on our site that would help you, and other Christians, to learn, grow, and feel united in faith. Maybe there’s a specific topic you’d like to see covered, a prayer that touched your heart, or a Christian song that’s been on your mind.
This is a place for all of us, so let’s keep it friendly. We’re cool with different opinions – that’s how we learn from each other! But let’s remember to share our thoughts respectfully, with the kind of love that Jesus showed us. No room for ugliness or bashing here.
We appreciate your time and look forward to hearing what great ideas you have to make our site even better. Together, we can create a place that truly serves and unifies the Christian community.
