Our Pursuit of Happiness
Felix Jameson was a very successful man.
Let’s pause a moment to analyze how we picture Mr. Jameson. Wealthy? Powerful? Behind the desk of a huge company? Or perhaps on a baseball field or basketball court? I’ve noticed that when people talk about someone being “successful” these are the images that pop into my head. Why is that? I believe it’s because for 30 years I’ve been discipled by a culture that prizes wealth, power, business acumen, and athletics.
However, these traits are not inherent in success because the label of success is entirely dependent upon where the person is trying to go. As Americans we assume along with the culture that where we want to go includes all these traits, though this idea is entirely unbiblical. If Mr. Jameson (not a real person) desired to live his life faithful to God, he may be poor and powerless. Now, if he desired to live faithfully, but didn’t because he pursued money and power when he ought not have, then he would be unsuccessful no matter what his bank account said. Success can only be measured according to what we pursue.
Strangers in a Foreign Land
As Christians we must ask ourselves, “Where are we trying to go?” And just as important “Where should my children be going?” We all want our children to succeed, though I believe we reflexively equate our children’s success with the world’s values (just as we reflexively associate Mr. Jameson as rich and powerful). Therefore, we will spend hours every week helping our children with schoolwork or helping them practice athletics. We will spend money on tutors and trainers. We move cities to make sure they are in the best available school. While these things aren’t bad, they are secondary things for the Christian.
We want to be a church that is radically counter-cultural. Our parenting is perhaps the primary way that we can demonstration a rejection of the values of this world.
Questions to reflect upon as authorities of the house:
- What do I most naturally equate success with?
- List all the ways you are hoping your children will be successful and what that looks like. How is each area being invested in? Does our investment level reflect our priorities and values? What adjustments should be made?
- Hospitality in a Covid World - December 17, 2020
- Jesus, the Liberator We Don’t Want - June 12, 2020
- Why I’m NOT an Inerrantist - June 11, 2020
The book, “Radical: Taking Back Your Faith From the American Dream” by David Platt delves into this subject. Thanks for reminding us what is first and foremost for followers of Jesus!:)
Pastor Aaron, I forgot to ask for your opinion on that book…?:)
Marcy, unfortunately I haven’t had the chance to read it, though what I’ve heard of it from others sounds quite good.
Ack! Forgive me! I could’ve phrased that question differently. I know you read a ton, but was wondering if you had read that particular book and what your opinion might be on it. I read it years ago and it, as did your article, helped me define success in a Biblical way. Thank you!!:)