May 26, 2022 Significance - Beyond Success

 

Dear Friends,

Memorial Day is coming soon.  It is observed on the last Monday of May in memory of those who gave their lives in the nation's wars.  At the Arlington National Cemetery, during the moment of remembrance at 3 p.m., one long whistle is sounded in honor of those who have died in service.  Do you know that traditionally, American presidents give a Memorial Day speech at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  A large number of unidentified remains lay rest at the Tomb of the Unknown; many are from the days preceding "dog tags" worn by soldiers.  Even though names remain unknown, these soldiers' sacrifice was significant and they are not forgotten. 

Significance typically results from adding value to others.  Success, on the other hand, is associated with adding value to me.  Successful people are ladder-climbers while those who pursue significance are ladder-builders.  Last week we read Matthew 6:19-21 which talks about two bank accounts.  We can store our treasures in the Bank of the Earth or the Bank of Heaven or both!  Congratulations, if your Earthly bank account has a high balance.  That means you are successful in wealth accumulation!  This is nothing to be ashamed of because wealth is a blessing for our time on earth.  Just know that treasures in this account has an expiration date.  On the other hand, double-congratulations, if your Heavenly bank account is building balance because it will never ever be depleted.  You may not be named the world's richest person, but your significance is reflected in the treasures you have deposited into your Heavenly bank account.  It will not be forgotten by God who is eternal; even more durable than the soldiers laying under the Tomb of the Unknown.

Take a look at this YouTube video by John Maxwell: Significance - Beyond Success

Reflection & Action

Read the Scriptures below related to the Biblical view of Significance and what it means in the "So What".  We will go around the group to respond to the "Now What" under each Scripture passage.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

"So continue encouraging each other and building each other up, just like you are doing already."

So What: God wants you to lift those around you up, whether it's helping out someone in your career field, giving a friend an encouraging boost, or being a shoulder to lean on in a tough time. We all succeed when we help one another.

Now What: How should this passage change the way you live?  Think of a person or a situation that you can practically apply this Scripture.

Matthew 5:16

"In the same way, let your light shine before people, so they can see the good things you do and praise your Father who is in heaven."

So What: Sometimes, helping others is as simple as living an honest and faithful life. By living thoughtfully and honoring God with your words and actions, you can inspire someone to help themselves by doing the same.

Now What: How should this passage change the way you live?  Think of a person or a situation that you can practically apply this Scripture.

Proverbs 3:27

"Don't withhold good from someone who deserves it, when it is in your power to do so."

So What: When you do have the ability and the opportunity to help someone, it's important that you do so. You can't solve all the world's problems, but you can be a positive force in the lives you encounter.

Now What: How should this passage change the way you live?  Think of a person or a situation that you can practically apply this Scripture.

Philippians 2:4

"Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others."

So What: It's OK to consider what's best for you and your family, but you should also keep in mind what will be most beneficial for your community. Trust that others are also looking out for your interests as well. Everyone has to work together.

Now What: How should this passage change the way you live?  Think of a person or a situation that you can practically apply this Scripture.

Matthew 25:44 - 45

"Then they will reply, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison and didn’t do anything to help you?' Then he will answer, 'I assure you that when you haven't done it for one of the least of these, you haven't done it for me.'"

So What: This verse is a stark reminder that God is everywhere. Sometimes it can be hard to sense his presence in environments you're not used to, or when you encounter a stranger in need. Keep your heart open and share his love with the world — it's the right thing to do, especially to those who can never repay you.

Now What: How does this passage change the way you see God?  Think of a person or a situation that you can practically apply this Scripture.

James 2:14-17

"My brothers and sisters, what good is it if people say they have faith but do nothing to show it? Claiming to have faith can’t save anyone, can it? Imagine a brother or sister who is naked and never has enough food to eat. What if one of you said, 'Go in peace! Stay warm! Have a nice meal!?' What good is it if you don't actually give them what their body needs? In the same way, faith is dead when it doesn’t result in faithful activity."

So What: There will always be someone in need. As a person of faith, you have an obligation to God to help the people in your community who need a hand.  Being a commentator is easy, being a player requires action.

Now What: How should this passage change the way you live?  Think of a person or a situation that you can practically apply this Scripture.

Proverbs 11:25

"Generous persons will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed."

So What: Knowing that you've been able to help someone is its own reward. 

Now What: How should this passage change the way you live?  Think of a person or a situation that you can practically apply this Scripture.

Deuteronomy 22:4

"Don't just watch your fellow Israelite's donkey or ox fall down in the road and do nothing about it. You must help your fellow Israelite get the animal up again."

The Good News: This is referencing a very specific situation but the overall sentiment rings true — don't turn a blind eye to the suffering of others. Instead, help them through it.

Now What: How should this passage change the way you live?  Think of a person or a situation that you can practically apply this Scripture.

Takeaway:

American theologian John Piper said, "What makes my life significant are three things: Know God, Love God, Show God."  This may take a while to sink in.  Rest assured that God will help you and I as we stay on course and press on to finish our journey!  Significance > Success.