Senior Living - April 10

What is your standard of success?

Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth.But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. - 1 Corinthians 1:26-27

A Chinese folk story tells of a group of elderly, cultured gentlemen who would often meet to exchange wisdom and drink tea. The men took turns hosting, and each host tried to find the finest and most costly varieties of tea. He would create exotic blends that would arouse the admiration of his guests.

When the most respected member of the group entertained at one meeting, he served his tea with unprecedented ceremony, carefully measuring the leaves from a golden box. The experts praised this exquisite tea, claiming it was the very best they’d tasted. The host smiled and said, “The tea you have found so delightful is the same tea our peasants drink.”

The best things in life are not necessarily the rarest or the most costly. In fact, they often are the least likely to impress. Take Jesus, for example. He was born in a small town, likely raised in disgrace as most would’ve thought he was conceived out of wedlock, and sentenced to die a criminal’s death on the cross. By worldly standards, he was least likely to succeed!

Yet Jesus lived a life that was more powerful than any other human being’s. And in much the same way, it doesn’t take an impressive and dynamic personality to make a difference in the world. No matter who you are or what you do, you can have a real impact. So live today knowing that truth, and impact eternity by representing Christ!

Prayer Challenge

Pray and ask God to show you how you can impact others’ lives for Christ wherever you are.

Questions for Thought

What are the types of people that the world would consider “successful” in life?

How can you make a real impact in others’ lives where God has you today?

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