By The way you define a single word can determine whether you live in peace or not.
That word is success.
While writing my book Shut Up, Devil, I looked up the word success. Not in a modern dictionary, but in Webster’s 1828 edition.
Back then, success was defined as “the favorable termination of anything attempted.”
Whereas in today’s dictionaries, the primary definition of success is wealth or fame.
Do you see the difference?
The first definition is personal and achievable by anyone. The modern one is ruthless. You either have it, or you don’t. There’s no room for context, calling or seasons.
(No wonder so many people feel behind, discouraged or restless! They’re measuring their “success” against a definition that doesn’t fit the life they were given.)
I had to learn this the hard way.
For years, I questioned whether my life “qualified” me for what I felt called to do. My personality didn’t seem to fit the mold. My family history didn’t. My story didn’t either.
I argued with God about all of it, until the answer became clear: You don’t need a different life; you need a different definition of success.
For me, peace finally came when I accepted what people must’ve known back in 1828.
I trust you’ll find the same to be true. If you want peace with your life, redefine success. Not as fame or fortune, but stewarding what God has given you.
P.S. This came from my teaching, “Making Peace with the Life You Didn’t Plan,” part of my Strong in the Struggle series. Other messages include: “How to Keep Going When You Feel Like Giving Up,” “The Face Behind Your Pain,” “What Attracts God to You” and “Grieving with Grace” (a conversation with my friend Rick Manis). Get all 5 messages today for your donation of any amount.