Success
In this message, we're challenged to redefine success through God's eyes rather than the world's standards. The sermon draws a striking contrast between Isaiah 53's depiction of the suffering Messiah and Joshua 1:8's promise of prosperity. We're reminded that Jesus, by worldly measures, would have been considered a failure - rejected, poor, and abandoned. Yet, His obedience to God's plan was the ultimate success. This perspective shift invites us to examine our own lives. Are we seeking worldly acclaim or God's approval? The message emphasizes that true success isn't about possessions or status, but about understanding and applying God's Word in our daily lives. We're encouraged to be 'doers of the word, not hearers only' (James 1:22), reflecting deeply on Scripture and allowing it to transform us. This teaching prompts us to consider: Are we living to please ourselves, or to please God? How can we align our definition of success with God's perspective?