With the beginning of each new year, it is insightful to revisit the question: What is my definition of success? David’s first words to Solomon and his last words to his successor to the throne were to keep God’s commands (see Proverbs 4:3-9; 1 Kings 2:1-4). Even God Himself repeated this same charge to David’s […]
The Thirty Sayings of the Wise | Sweet Success: Keep God’s Commands (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)
The Thirty Sayings of the Wise | Sweet Success: Gratification (Ecclesiastes 2:1-3; 8b-11; Proverbs 21:17)
We often fall prey to the belief that success leads to the fulfillment of our every desire, when the process of delayed gratification can actually provide a higher level of satisfaction because our journey is typically more meaningful than the destination. Solomon pursued pleasure for the sake of gratification (see Ecclesiastes 2:1-3; 8b-11). David’s son […]
The Thirty Sayings of the Wise | Sweet Success: Security (Ecclesiastes 5:10-20; 7:12)
Do you struggle with insecurity? It might be the result of where you search to be secure. Solomon pursued money for the sake of security (see Ecclesiastes 5:10-20). He was wealthier than any other king on the planet (see 1 Kings 10:23). In our search for security, we either pursue one or the other. “The […]
The Thirty Sayings of the Wise | Sweet Success: Control (Ecclesiastes 8:2-10; 1 Corinthians 1:24; 2 Corinthians 12:9)
Do you try to control those around you, attempting to micromanage every outcome? Few have been afforded the ability to do so like Israel’s King Solomon. Solomon built up military might for the sake of control (see Ecclesiastes 4:13-16; 8:2-10). As Israel’s king, he ruled over God’s people (see 1 Kings 1:35), whom he overtaxed […]
The Thirty Sayings of the Wise | Sweet Success: Significance (Ecclesiastes 2:4-8a; 2 Corinthians 8:9)
Solomon accumulated possessions for the sake of significance (see Ecclesiastes 2:4-8a). Israel’s king constructed the temple in seven years (see 1 Kings 6:38); however, he invested thirteen years to build his palace (see 1 Kings 7:1). He constructed the wall around Jerusalem (see 1 Kings 3:1), built a fleet of ships (see 1 Kings 9:26), […]