Davidisms - The Danger of Self-made Success

I have found there to be tremendous danger in self-made success. The problem with people who can work their way into a place of success is that they often find themselves worshiping their creation rather than their Creator. Our culture emphasizes the need to be self-made. Work hard. Achieve. Be successful. Reap the benefits of your success. Don’t get me wrong. We should work hard. Colossians 3:23 and 1 Corinthians 15:58 both call us to work at everything we do with all of our hearts for the Lord; always abounding in work and knowing our labor is not in vain. We are to do all of this for the glory of the Lord. But self-made success that is devoid of humility and dependency on Jesus can quickly turn to self-sufficiency and self-worship. We end up worshiping ourselves - the creator of our success - rather than the Creator who gave us everything to be successful in the first place. The very ability to work hard is a gift from God. Any creative thoughts or ideas we have are placed there by him. The energy to get up every day and pursue success comes from him. Deuteronomy 8:18 says, “You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day.” Remember. What an important word. It is the weapon with which we can fight the dangers of self-made success. Remember who created you. Remember all you have is a gift from God. Remember you were created for a purpose. Remember who should get the glory. Remember your priorities. Remember to rest. These “remember” phrases will keep you free from being tempted to think you are greater than your Creator. To Christ alone be all glory!