Actor Jimmy Stewart, a church-going Christian, explained in an interview how advancement used to be made in Hollywood: "You started out with little part in little pictures, and then you went on to little parts in big pictures, then to big parts in little pictures, and finally to big parts in big pictures."
This kind of professional progress differs from what most people seem to prefer: overnight success, being an instant celebrity, starting at the top. But this instant stardom formula misses the most important ingredient: faithfulness. Jesus' parable of the talents highlights such dedication: "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things" (Matt 25:21)
Trustworthiness, dependability, giving the assignment your best shot, persisting in good effort -- these are steps leading to success. Success, however, doesn't necessarily mean gaining wealth or getting promotions. In the eyes of God -- and often also in the eyes of people -- "success" comes from faithfully using one's talents and improving them so that better service can be rendered. This brings satisfaction to the individual and gives glory to God. No success is greater than this.
The Letter to the Hebrews declares that Moses "was faithful in all God's house" (3:2-3), but "Jesus has been found worthy of greater honor than Moses," for He was our "merciful and faithful high priest in service to God" (2:17), that "He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God" (12:2). Jesus did more than set us an example; by His Spirit He enables us to find true success in serving God.
With love through Christ,
Matt