What Is Real Success?

GENESIS 13:5-13

What is your definition of success? Simply by mentioning the word "success" positive images immediately spring into our minds! Our spirits are lifted to a desired reality we deeply hope is a part of our future. But seriously... what is your view of success? Some would answer without any hesitation listing financial wealth, significant power or influence, a few homes, fame, and maybe even a few expensive toys. Others may identify a successful business,  a happy marriage and family, or perhaps even a good solid church home. I may be going out on a limb, but I wonder how many folks would say... knowing and satisfying the will of God is success. That is correct; I believe that success in life is discovering God's plan for you and fulfilling it entirely. Another way of communicating this is learning why God made you, and becoming that person...living to do His specifically designed will for you. Understand that God had a purpose in mind when He created you and me. Certainly He has an incredible plan for every child of God! Beloved, the Christian who is directed by the Lord Jesus will lead a successful spiritual life. In contrast the Believer who persists in their self-satisfying plans while ignoring the leadership of the Lord is destined for serious and painful failures.

In this biblical account, the revived Abraham has learned to follow God by faith; he is leading a God-centered life. In contrast though, Lot, Abraham's nephew, persists in carnality choosing his own way living primarily by sight.  Because Abraham walks by faith he receives direction and comfort from the Lord; as a result he leads a successful spiritual life.  Lot, on the other hand, experiences one disaster after another because he habitually capitulates to his fallen motives. He was without divine direction, peace, assurance, and comfort; according to the biblical account, Lot died as a complete spiritual failure. The comfort for Abraham can be seen in the fact that he is led by the Lord, and the catastrophe for Lot is revealed in the fact that he is not!

In Proverbs 14:12, the wise Solomon says, "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." Death is the outcome of insisting on our own way! To punctuate this important warning Solomon repeats it in Proverbs 16:25! If God repeats Himself, it is for our good and admonition--a demonstration of how much He really cares. These passages provide an apt summary for the life of Lot! I submit to you we can learn from the failures of Lot, and it is far better to learn from the mistakes of others thus avoiding some pain, regrets, and struggles. Once again Lot insisted on his own way ahead and this leads to death. That is correct... death to spiritual growth, death to valued relationships, death to God-given dreams, death to our true potential, and death to ever exploring the excellent plan of God for us. And yes, death....

In the life of Lot we witness how one decision can lead to others. How our choices can start us down a road we never initially intended to travel. A path riddled with frustrations, disappointment, disillusionment, and deeply perplexing pain. Our decisions are fundamentally rooted in our character--who we truly are. Lot’s character is revealed by the major decisions he made throughout his life. He chose to pitch his tent toward the sinful cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Perhaps he thought about how to farm his herds and how the well watered plains are ideal for raising livestock. It appears he was seeking riches and a better life for himself rather than the path of obedience to God. Indeed he prospered for a while, but this pivotal decision eventually led to his humiliation, the tragic loss of his wife and daughters, and he never realized God's grand plan for his life.

Lot’s life as a Believer was a catastrophe because He never knew the will of God; He did not take a single spiritual step after his salvation; finally he made an absolute shipwreck of all his potential to bring glory to God! His is a totally wasted life! The “WILL OF GOD” should be the desired goal of every Christian; to miss His plan is a gross failure!

Consider these insightful thoughts from The Bible Friend, and entertain for a moment the following points of inquiry. 

WHERE IS HAPPINESS?

Not in Unbelief---Voltaire was an infidel (God Denier) of the most pronounced type.  He wrote: “I wish I had never been born.”

Not in Pleasure---Lord Byron lived a life of pleasure if anyone did.  He wrote: “The worm, the canker, and grief are mine alone.”

Not in Money----Jay Gould, the American millionaire, had plenty of that.  When dying, he said: “I suppose I am the most miserable man on earth.”

Not in Position and Fame--Lord Beaconsfield enjoyed more than his share of both.  He wrote: “Youth is a mistake; manhood a struggle; old age a regret.”

Not in Military Glory---Alexander the Great conquered the known world in his day.  Having done so, he wept in his tent, because he said, “There are no more worlds to conquer.”

Where then is happiness found?---The answer is simple... in Christ alone.--The Bible Friend

All the things people think will bring them happiness and success are mentioned and all of them failed to deliver! No... wealth, pleasures, fame, power, and atheism will not bring us happiness or success; they all are cheap substitutes for godly prosperity. So, what were the major contributing factors in Lot’s catastrophic failures? Will it not be advantageous to know how to avoid the path to major failures?  Certainly we will make our share of mistakes, but I believe the average person wants to keep those to a minimum...right? How can we avoid making the same mistakes?  How can an individual break a generational curse that has historically plagued their family tree? When we look back over our lives, what can we learn from our failures? What are the the underlying assumptions that lead to predictable and persistent spiritual failures? If you can appreciate the magnitude of such inquiries, then please keep reading.... The answers are far more practical than philosophical! 


First, consider the single point of failure in Lot's situation is the fact that he has NO SPIRITUAL RESTRAINT! He is not governed by his relationship and fellowship with the Most High God.  He appears to be operating under the assumption that he has all the internal resources within himself to decide well and forge his own path. His faith does not provide a constraining, guiding, directing influence in his experience. He does not live in utter dependence upon God.  It is not that faith in God is somehow deficient, but instead many, like Lot, persist in ignorance of Him as if He is a non-factor. Lot assumed he had enough experience, wisdom, intellectual prowess, and internal fortitude to forge his own way ahead independently. Generally speaking this results in many lives caught in an unbroken cycle of frustration--they each are essentially unbroken chains of failures.... 

Furthermore, some of these well meaning folks never or seldom pause to investigate why! Debt leading to more debt. Mild frustrations with our teens to zero communications with them for days...months. Marriage 'dead ends' that lead to further distrust and the harshest exchanges. Becoming slightly interested in an unhealthy relationship gravitating to a chain of shameful moral failures that lead to wholesale violations of core values. Experimenting with marijuana to 'fit in' with the crew devolving to semi-functional substance dependence finally degenerating to pervasive dysfunctional dependence on a substance. The common thread in each of these scenarios is each person thought they could handle it or that they were still in control. People keep looking to themselves or within themselves in vain.... Beloved, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again while expecting a different outcome. Without a healthy God-centered relationship and deeply held convictions we too can live without the highly beneficial influence of godly restraints. 

With this in mind, there are basically three things that seem to be major factors in Lot’s wrong choice to move closer to Sodom, farther away from God, and his ultimate failures in life. The first of them is addressed below--failures in his devotional life. 

FIRST, LOT WAS WEAK IN HIS DEVOTIONS....

In Genesis 13:5, God says, "And Lot also, which went with Abram, had flocks, and herds, and tents."

Lot had flocks and tents, just as Abraham, but Abraham had something that Lot did not. Abraham had an altar! That is, he inquired of the Lord, he worshiped God making sacrifices to Him, he cherished and nurtured a robust relationship with the Most High God, and he had a healthy daily devotional life. While Abraham was far from perfect, he did indeed love the Most High God. God's Word and promises framed his adventures, expectations, and plans for the future.

In contrast, there is not even a hint that Lot had an altar, nor is there any indication that he paused to inquire of the Lord for direction. There is zero record that Lot actually asked God, “Lord, this move is important to me and my family, what would you have me to do?” Lot had no quiet time with the Lord, no devotions, no period of waiting on God and no direction from God!  He had no altar. Lot was doing his own thing! God was not his primary Influencer; God was not the vital Object of Lot's devotion. Lot's beliefs, values, and feelings were not shaped by the Lord. He alone was his resource and source...self-sufficiency. He did not feel he needed God for things related to real everyday life. Therefore, he was weak in his devotions.

Yes, Lot Is a Believer

Is this surprising to you? Yes, it is difficult to tell form the Genesis account of Lot's life and family. Please note what Peter said, in Second Peter 2:7-8, "And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: 8, (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;)".

When and where Lot was saved I am not sure. It could have been when Abraham disclosed his plans to leave Ur or it could have been when Abraham left Haran to come to Canaan (Gen. 12:4-5).  I do not know for sure, but I do know that he was a saved man. 

Peter describes him by the inspiration of God's Spirit, as "just," "righteous man," and possessing a "righteous soul." Therefore according to the testimony of God, Lot was a saved person. Evidently, he hated the sinfulness and blatant disrespect for Almighty God surrounding him. He did not like the foul language, sensuality, perversions of sex, vial music, gross injustice, manipulations of the poor, miscarriages of justice, and complete ignorance of God! He did not participate freely or indulge in the sinfulness surrounding him. No, he was deeply "vexed" by "their unlawful deeds." This means Lot was annoyed and frustrated with the lawless living in Sodom and Gomorrah (Ezek. 16:49). Pride, gluttony, laziness, and neglect of the poor were all sins that characterized Sodom. There were extremely corrupt social and political cartels, strong powerful mobs, complex and ruthless mafia organizations, a widespread practice of sodmy and homosexual orgies, and real estate racketeers preying on widows. These features in the culture of these ancient cities deeply disturbed Lot. The pervasive sensuality and perversion got on his nerves and troubled him deeply. He worried about these people and was concern for their welfare. The way the poor was treated bothered him to no end. The gross miscarriage of justice was perhaps something he tried to correct through social and political means. 

Perhaps he keep matters of faith to himself preferring to be a silent witness.... Maybe he was ashamed of his faith-life and kept it private.... One thing I know for sure is that God viewed him as a "righteous man" with a "righteous soul." Remember, Lot and his family were the righteous persons God rescued when He destroyed this wicked city (2Pet. 2:7-9). This righteous man was grieved and tortured deeply while living among a desperately vial people! 

But still I must say it is an awful thing when people can scarcely perceive that we really are Christians. It is difficult to draw these positive conclusions about Lot from the Old Testament accounts. In the book of Genesis, Lot comes across as a man who lost himself through compromises and very lax convictions. He seemingly was willing to put up with the filth as long as he could gain something of material benefit from the association. Perhaps, like so many today, he was convinced he could handle the situation and control its impact on himself and his family. The truth is... we can choose what we do, but we cannot control the consequences of our choices! Furthermore, it ought to be obvious to anyone associated with us that we truly love the Lord Jesus!  This is not so obvious in Lot's story. While we all execute through the prism of our unique personalities, the Lord Jesus should still shine through. So, though it is difficult to see, Lot truly was a Believer. 

The Spirit of Burning

This basic convicting and cleansing work of the Spirit in the life of believers can be illustrated by the words of the prophet Isaiah. He said “When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the blood of Jerusalem from the midst thereof by the spirit of judgment, and by the spirit of burning” (Isaiah 4:4).  Evidently God is quite interested in washing and purging! Isaiah reveals God’s passionate desire to cleanse His people in Jerusalem.

Since this Old Testament passage is not as familiar, it would be helpful to afford some context and consider the primary meaning of this chapter and verse before applying it to Christian experience.  Accordingly, the prophet Isaiah looks beyond the “Day of the Lord” to that time when “the Branch,” Christ’s, kingdom will be established on earth.  In that day Jerusalem and Israel will be marked by holiness. Their sins will be forgiven. They will be saved and inwardly transformed to show forth the holiness of Christ. These will reside there (Isa 4:3) as citizens of the city. 

Isaiah says “the daughters of Zion” (they represent the nation of Israel) will be cleansed “by the spirit of judgment and by the spirit of burning” (Isa. 4:4).  Adam Clarke’s Commentary on the Whole Bible (Clarke, 1967, p. 1347) clearly explains this judgment and purging work of God metaphorically as the craft of the refiner:

[Isaiah 4:4] The spirit of burning means the fire of God's wrath, by which he will prove and purify his people; gathering them into his furnace, in order to separate the dross from the silver, the bad from the good. The severity of God's judgments, the fiery trial of his servants, Ezekiel (Ezek 22:18-22) has set forth at large, after his manner, with great boldness of imagery and force of expression. God threatens to gather them into the midst of Jerusalem, as into the furnace; to blow the fire upon them, and to melt them. Malachi, Mal 3:2-3, treats the same subject, and represents the same event, under the like images…. This is an allusion to a chemist purifying metals. He first judges of the state of the ore or adulterated metal. Secondly, he kindles the proper degree of fire, and applies the requisite test; and thus separates the precious from the vile (The Bethany Parallel Commentary on the Old Testament).

This is the work of the Spirit of God! His judgment will be like fire that will burn away the nation’s unwanted filth and sin. God’s new order will not prevail until His Spirit has cleansed and purged the city of its wickedness, carnality, worldliness, and idolatry.  It is the sovereign workings of the Lord that must do this.  No human engineering, efforts, or excellence will be able to achieve this.  God by His Spirit will cleanse the nation (Isa. 4:4; see Zech. 12:10–13:1), revive the fruitfulness of the land, and live with them as He did before (Isa. 4:5–6; Ex. 13:21–22).  The glory of God will be evident in Jerusalem (Mount Zion) providing blessing, security, and peace. Again all of this will be accomplished through the Spirit’s purging fire!  God will produce a holy city to be the capital of the world when Christ reigns. Surely this demonstrates a persistent unrelenting pursuit on the behalf of Jehovah to purify and render his people holy.

The brilliant adaptation in Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Whole Bible (Henry 2000) affords insight into the spiritual implications of this Isaiah passage to the current Christian experience. Note what he said.

By the judgment of God's providence, sinners were destroyed and consumed; but by the Spirit of grace they are reformed and converted. The Spirit herein acts as a Spirit of judgment, enlightening the mind, convincing the conscience; also as a Spirit of burning, quickening and strengthening the affections, and making men zealously affected in a good work. An ardent love to Christ and souls, and zeal against sin, will carry men on with resolution in endeavours to turn away ungodliness from Jacob. Every affliction serves believers as a furnace, to purify them from dross; and the convincing, enlightening, and powerful influences of the Holy Spirit, gradually root out their lusts, and render them holy as He is holy. God will protect his church, and all that belong to it. Gospel truths and ordinances are the glory of the church. Grace in the soul is the glory of it; and those that have it are kept by the power of God. But only those who are weary will seek rest; only those who are convinced that a storm is approaching, will look for shelter. Affected with a deep sense of the Divine displeasure, to which we are exposed by sin, let us at once have recourse to Jesus Christ, and thankfully accept the refuge he affords.

Having recognized the primary interpretation of this passage, and some spiritual implications to modern saints, more specific applications for Christians can now be made. 

First and fundamentally, the spiritual realities of the kingdom age have already begun in the children of God, though not in their entirety (Rom. 8:18-29).  Christians have a foretaste of the glory to come and are spiritual previews, though imperfect, of the reconciliation, righteousness, peace, and fellowship with God that will characterize the kingdom age comprehensively. It is the Spirit of adoption living in the sons of God today who provides the anticipation of worldwide glory for all creation (Rom. 8:14-17).  To draw spiritual implications from this passage in Isaiah is not farfetched at all.  No, not by any stretch of the imagination could it be considered a misapplication.

Secondly, the Spirit of judgment and burning will execute cleansing by convictions, punishments, chastisements, and disciplines.  Today the Spirit of God still judges and condemns sinful behavior and will proceed to chasten wayward believers motivating them to live purer lives.  This is often referred to as conviction by God. Thirdly after such conviction, chastening, and cleansing the glory of the Lord, the character of Christ, will be made evident. This is the Spirit of Grace manifesting Christ in God’s people. Christians can currently enjoy the presence of the Spirit, the production of Christlike fruit, and the blessed peace of the Lord. 

This application is not at all an effort to spiritualize the millennial kingdom predictions or relegate them as unworthy of anticipating.  Not at all, this is simply an application and comparison of these future blessings to the spiritual blessings of Christians today.  Also applying this passage to the Christian experience William Evans (1974, p. 113) in his book The Great Doctrines of the Bible made this observation,

This cleansing is done by the blast of the Spirit’s burning. Here is the searching, illuminating, refining, dross-consuming character of the Spirit. He burns up the dross in our lives….

The “Spirit of Burning” searches the heart, illuminates that which is contrary to Christ, consumes the residual dross in the character, and refines believers for deeper fellowship and service of greater impact and magnitude.  The blessed Holy Spirit actually purifies the Christian’s soul.  Like fire He penetrates the self-assured veneer, probes and pierces the conscious deeply, and He creates aspirations to be right with the Lord and clean.

Often in Scripture fire relates to the process of purification and refinement.  For instance Isaiah 1:25, says “And I will turn my hand upon thee, and purely purge away thy dross, and take away all thy tin”.  Likewise God endeavors to purge Christians’ attitudes, aspirations, and actions like precious metals to remove impurities and refine them for greater usages—these are chastening and judgment acts of God upon His people (Heb. 12).  Fire is a symbol by which the Holy Spirit’s work in believers’ hearts can be understood.  Taken together the result is spiritually purified hearts by the searching flames of the Spirit of Burning.

The Spirit also purifies the believer by freeing him from the dominance, slavery, and mastery of the carnal fleshly human nature.  Upon the new birth He creates this power and potential in each saint.  But it is through yielding to the Spirit that cleansing can be experienced. Paul conveys this in Galatians 5:16, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” Note also Galatians 5:25. Through a faithful “walk in the Spirit” believers realize the blessings of freedom from sinful practices even when sin seems unmovable and extremely stubborn!  Additionally, the Spirit, like fire, will illuminate the faintest sins hiding in the deepest recesses of the soul and purge it so significantly that it no longer tortures believers through their motivations and desires. Then the Spirit of God affords the people of God the power to refuse and deny those base desires satisfaction, expression, and ventilation. This is victorious freedom as one continually walks in the Holy Spirit’s sin-purging fire! This is the purifying role of the Holy Spirit—The Spirit of Burning. Note the following comment from the Bible Knowledge Commentary (Walvoord & Zuck 1985),

The Promise of Victory Over Sin (Gal. 5:16-18). The answer to the abuses described in the previous verse is to live by the Spirit. The phrase literally means to, “keep on walking.” As a believer walks through life he should depend on the indwelling Holy Spirit for guidance and power. But the Spirit does not operate automatically in a believer’s heart. He waits to be depended on. When a Christian does yield to the Spirit’s control, the promise is that he will not in any wise gratify, “complete, fulfill” in outward action) the desires of the sinful nature. Thus, while no believer will ever be entirely free in this life from the evil desires that stem from his fallen human nature, he need not capitulate to them, but may experience victory by the Spirit’s help.

The Spirit of the Lord will ‘burn’—convicting of sin and creating a passionate desire for holiness—to purify the hearts and practices of believers (John 16:8–11).  He will not allow anything to coexist with Him in His temple that is not holy, pure, and righteous.  For that reason, the Holy Spirit convicts believers continually when they sin. They may refuse to yield to His convictions for such a long period that it seems His voice has been reduced to a whisper.  Still He will seek to persuade them of their sin until they face it, confess it, judge it, repent of it, are forgiven for it, and are cleansed of it (1Jn. 1:7-2:2). Our sinfulness is revolting to the Holy Father, and the Spirit of Burning will not allow it to stand unchallenged.

The Lord Jesus identified the heart of man as the center of his spiritual problems.  He taught that corruption, impurity and filth come from the inner motives of the fallen mind and heart (Mark 7:20–23).  No doubt the Holy Spirit targets the heart of the believer with a yearning to cleanse it of all base desires and carnal motives.  The fact is the heart of the matter is the heart!  The Spirit not only wants believers to behave correctly, but He longs for them to also have correct beliefs, values, motivations, and godly desires. The Lord Jesus taught that genuine purification is possible by following Him and giving heed to His message (John 15:3; Ps. 119:9-11).  This is the same as walking in the Spirit (Eph. 5:18-21; Col. 3:16-17).

In light of this each believer should be sensitive to the convicting power of the Holy Spirit in his life.  Christians should respond to Him with a contrite and humble heart. David the Psalmist said that, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise” (Ps. 51:17).  When the Spirit of God identifies something in the Christian’s heart that does not resemble Christ, they must submissively humble themselves before Him recognizing the gravity of their offense to a holy, righteous, and good God.  Remember all sins, big and small, are a vicious assault on the Majesty and Authority of Jehovah God!  Every sin expresses treasonous rebellion and despises God and His Law (Lev. 16:21; 2Sam. 12:9-10).  The Spirit of the Lord presses the enormity of their sin upon their conscious and encourages them to make things right with the Lord immediately.

Recall when King Josiah humbled himself before the Lord, God responded by saying,

But to the king of Judah…Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, As touching the words which thou hast heard; ¹⁹ Because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the Lord, when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the Lord” (2 Kings 22:18-19). 

Josiah’s reaction to this confrontation with his sin and that of the nation is highly instructive for Christians today.  Many are far too tolerant and permissive regarding personal sin. Clearly this attitude is not from God. Believers can become rather insensitive and harden to what violently offends His Majesty. But when the Spirit convinces us of sins we must face, confess, and forsake them (1Cor. 6:9-11; 1Jn. 1:7-2:2; Tit. 2:14). Thank God there is cleansing and purification through the precious blood of Jesus Christ (1John 1:7-9). Only then can we be forgiven of it and restored to the fellowship necessary for the Lord to use us as He desires.

Influenced by Worldly Wisdom?

Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. 14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. (James 3:14-16, KJV)

How would you describe “worldly wisdom”? (Js. 3:14)

Well...the worldly-wise person is characterized by bitter envying and strife—selfish ambition in the heart (3:14). Their singular passion in life is to advance their personal interests--"number one" matters above all others. He or she is jealous of any competitors and ruthless in dealing with them. Such people are proud of their knowledge and intellectual acumen, and they point to these as the primary keys to their success. However, when we take a look at James chapter three we find this is simply NOT the case at all.  What they refer to as a desirable 'wisdom' really is not wisdom at all. Worldly wisdom is NOT the wisdom that comes from God! Such bragging, personal promotion and self-marketing are deceptively empty. In fact, such behaviors are a fundamental denial of the truth that the truly wise person is markedly humble deep within. Personal humility is always a distinguishing characteristic of godly wisdom. So how can we know if we are operating from the position of godly wisdom or worldly wisdom? One answer is to become aware of what worldly wisdom is, how it functions, and what its outcomes are. Consider the following....

Worldly Wisdom is Selfish in Its Strategy (Js. 3:14).

So what are the four distinct characteristics of worldly wisdom? How can I identify or recognize it in myself and others? How can I detect its influence in my soul, relationships, and aspirations? Note the following four features of godless wisdom. 

It is Jealous. “Bitter envying” is endeavoring to exceed the achievements of others motivated by a zealous form of jealousy. Bitterness is driving the internal motives; jealousy and a yearning to have preeminence pervades the mind and soul. These words transmit the meaning of zealous selfish ambition. Such people are "eaten up" with envy and jealousy. Envy is a harsh, resentful attitude toward others and is rooted in unhealthy comparisons of one with another. If you recall James 3:1, where James warned them not to be ambitious for spiritual offices in the church. Some folks are motivated primarily by what others enjoy as they execute a certain office, and they crave the same privileges and honors for themselves. Instead of putting in the time to prepare, educate, train, and be mentored properly for greater responsibility, they are looking for a fast track or short cut to a prominent office or position.

The wisdom of the world says, “Promote yourself. You're as good as the other candidates, maybe better! An even if you aren’t better, you still deserve this opportunity. The wheel that squeaks the loudest gets the grease.” Sad to say, there is a great deal of selfish, carnal promotion among God’s people. Even the Apostles argued over who was the greatest in the kingdom. –Wiersbe, Warren

So many feel they are entitled to advancement and prestige.... They feel cheated when they cannot have the promotions or an office of greater responsibility. They are ready to cry injustice and parade themselves as some kind of martyr.... In fact there is no injustice...there is no unfairness in denying an opportunity to someone who is unqualified to fulfill the objective requirements.
It is easy to go on an ego trip under the guise of spiritual zeal. We must always bear in mind that zeal without knowledge is dangerous! Too many are addicted to the praise and accolades of people, the publicity derived from great achievements, and the lust for fame is startling.  I am convinced that the hunger for prominence and fame drives the reality television industry. I am certain such misplaced ambition drive YouTube video submissions. Why else would so many people make utter fools of themselves? This inordinate craving and pinning for the spotlight by outdistancing others is not godly wisdom in action. This is depraved human jealousy! Remember the Pharisees used their religious activities to garner the praise of men also (Matt 6:1-18). We ought to be zealous in the things of the Lord, but we must be sure that our motives are right. This is the difference between authenticity and hypocrisy. Note again that jealousy can look like spiritual zeal on the surface!

It is Selfish.  James uses the word “Strife,” which is selfish ambition, competing and fighting for individual superiority. It refers to egotistical aspirations that provoke conflict with others and causes divisions. Such individuals cultivate a “party spirit.” It is much like a politician out giving stump speeches to secure more votes. They over criticize the competition and overstate their achievements and intentions. All in the name of some perceived selfish advantage or even survival.

The world’s wisdom says, “Get all the support you can! Ask the people in the church if they are for you or against you!” Of course, this spirit of self-seeking only creates rivalry and division in the church. —Wiersbe 

In order to build themselves up they must resort to tarring others down. They do not have a record of successes, legitimate achievement, consistent track record of selfless service, or authentic godly character to sustain an interest in their merits or candidacy. Therefore, they resort to slinging mud at competitors, exaggerating their achievements, and re-scoping the issues to secure a calculated advantage.  You see everyone else is expendable when "number one" is all important to you!
How clarifying are the words of Paul to the Philippian Church saying, "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than [more important than] themselves" (Phil 2:3)? God counsels His people to put others before ourselves and He goes on to instruct us to be willing to serve others sacrificially while seeking no place of prominence for ourselves (Phil. 2:5). It is astounding how much energy is spent attempting to exalt ourselves while so little is invested in honoring, serving, and uplifting others. We get it all wrong when we believe we have been privileged for our benefit primarily. Beloved, this is not the model the Lord Jesus gave us! Christ consciously used His position, privileges, and honor to serve the welfare of the most undeserving in multiple sacrificial ways (Phil 2:5-10). Shame on the Christian who seeks to qualify his involvement or contributions on the basis of, "What's in it for me!"

It is Prideful. Another term revealing the nature of worldly wisdom is the word "glory." “Glory” is, well... just as you might have thought, bragging and boasting about exercising 'wisdom'. A form of self-aggrandizement couched in intellectual acumen, savvy, or shrewdness. Pride may also be rooted in perceived advantages, pedigree, achievements, or a certain lifestyle.

Prideful people love to boast, and nothing is prouder than the wisdom of men (1Cor. 8:1). Sometimes this form of pride marks those who have more education than the average person, or they may have graduated from a more prestigious university. Such arrogant folks fail to see there is a way to report blessings so that God gets the glory, but there is also an approach that gives men the praise. I personally believe it is healthy to remember the Bible says nothing good about pride (Prov. 16:18, 19; 11:2; 18:12; 29:23; Isa. 2:11, 12; Dan. 4:30-37; Rom. 11:20; 1Tim. 3:6).

 Knowledge is proud that she has learned so much; Wisdom is humble that she knows no more.—Author unknown

“Glory” (3:14) reminds us how pride loves to sing its own praises, but, when God’s wisdom is in operation, there is a sense of humility and submission, and you want God to get all the glory. (Wiersbe)You have no desire to compare yourself with any other Christian, because you see only Christ, and compared with Him, all of us still have a long ways to go!  Even in Christian service, it is possible to be bitterly jealous of other workers, and to seek a prominent place for oneself (3:15). Even at pastor's fellowships and preacher's conferences many are discouraged by 'successful pastors' who glory in their large budgets, attendance, and facilities. I am not suggesting that some of these men are malicious in their intentions, but they cause harm when they seek to be distinguished among their colleagues merely for their personal satisfaction. 

It has well been observed that there is always a danger that worldly-wise men will be given places of leadership in the churches. Some receive desirable ministry opportunities primarily because they are more talented, and not because they are obviously fit for the office. Others occupy highly coveted positions because they have large bank accounts and leverage this fact for promotion options. Yet, others receive more serious consideration for certain ministries because they are physically attractive, and not because they are the most qualified. I am also amazed at the incredible number of individuals who have a "ministry" and a "title," but they have little or no preparation for serving the Lord Jesus and others. They secured a "license" or ministry "certificate" online or from some 'church' that will ordain anybody and they feel legitimized by such procedures. These misguided souls actually intend to use the 'ministry' to become well off or wealthy! They see the big name Televangelists, religious TV show hosts, and prominent "Christian" figures and regards such "success" as something they should have one day. Beloved, this is worldly wisdom on steroids! Those who serve the Lord must first be servants at heart and seek His honor and glory in all things. We must love our neighbor as ourselves and seek to serve them in meaningful ways that actually help them. It is our responsibility to live as real disciples of Christ embodying the Gospel in daily life and ministry. Christian servants must prepare themselves well through rigorous study of the Scriptures, Bible education, and thoughtful mentoring by seasoned servants of the Lord. It is our task to execute the ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ...we serve people with what and who we are. Often this requires sacrifice after sacrifice without seeking to establish a reputation for ourselves. While every Christian is to be a servant of God to others, not every Christian should be in leadership positions as they do so. We hurt people by allowing them to think they are ready for leadership in Christian ministry without adequately preparing them. Somehow I cannot help but believe that someone is counting, putting notches in their belt, and building their resume at the expense of the unwary! We must constantly guard against allowing worldly principles and motives to guide us in the spiritual work of our Lord. We must seek the approval of God upon our service; there is no room for senselessly comparing ourselves with other servants of God. We all must come to grips with the truth, that without the Lord Jesus, we can do nothing.

Furthermore, the wisdom of this world exalts man and robs God of glory. In 1Cor 1:17, Paul discussed the wisdom of God and the wisdom of this world, and he explained why God works as He does: “That no flesh should glory in His presence” (1Cor. 1:29). He concluded the section with the admonition, “He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord” (1Cor 1:31). (Wiersbe)

It is healthy to ask ourselves, is our zeal for the Lord spiritual or carnal? Do we rejoice when others succeed, or do we have secret envy and criticism? Do we feel burdened when others fail, or are we secretly delighted? When the wisdom of the world gets into the churches, there is a great deal of fleshly promotion and human glorification.  Beware!

It is Deceptive. James gives this admonition, “Lie not against the truth” (3:14). The previously mention boasting is empty. We all can understand how a little bragging can become mild exaggerations and then finally complete distortion of reality. So again James' counsel is "lie not against the truth." What truth? The lie in this instance is essentially a denial of the truth that the person who is truly wise is indeed humble. Wisdom does not lead to arrogant conclusions about ourselves, but honest evaluations and assessments that breed humility of heart. Once again note carefully the progression as stated by Dr. Wiersbe,

The sequence is not difficult to understand. First, there is selfish ambition that leads to party spirit and rivalry. In order to "win the election" we must resort to boasting, and boasting usually involves lies! A man's life is not read in his press releases; it is read by the Lord in his heart.  

Again one incredible consequence is people begin to actually believe their own hype! Outrageous! Is not the instructions of the Apostle Paul fitting when he says, "Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God" (1Cor 4:5)?

God will personally see to it that the truth is revealed! Consider further the words of MacDonald, "He is proud of his wisdom that has brought success. But James says that this isn’t wisdom at all. Such boasting is empty. It is a practical denial of the truth that the man who is truly wise is truly humble." –MacDonald: Believer's Bible Commentary

Yes, the persons with God's perspective of themselves are deeply humble; the soul marked by godly wisdom does not tolerate inflated ideas of its importance. Clarifying truth is cherished over blinding lies. Actually truth frees us from the bondage of lies, half truths, and calculated misrepresentations. One of the saddest things to witness is a person so given to lying that they have zero inclinations to ever speak a trustworthy statement. Their minds are twisted and warped by deception! Such individuals habitually misrepresent even the simplest things by default.

I think a final word from Dr. McGee will suffice here, 

In fact, an uncontrolled tongue raises the question in the minds of others whether a man is a child of God or not. You cannot make me believe that a genuine believer can curse six days a week and then sing in a choir on Sunday. He cannot tell dirty jokes and then teach a Sunday school class, telling about the love of Jesus. That tongue which you have can do either one, but if it does both, it is that which stirs up strife. We are told here, “Lie not against the truth.” A lying tongue is one that denies the Lord during the week by its conversation. (McGee, J. Vernon: Thru the Bible Commentary)

I believe Dr. McGee makes a valid point. A life marked by lies is uncharacteristic of genuine Christianity. There is nothing about falsehoods that is compatible with the Gospel of Truth. It is as un-Christian as the prideful attitudes that spawn it. To be clear, a Believer who has God's wisdom operating in their soul will truly be a humble person. Recognizing this believers under the influence of godly wisdom have an  authentic heart of humility; they refuse to resort to jealousy, self-centeredness, arrogance, and deceptions.

Because godly Christians are humble, they are not controlled by green-eyed jealous, ruthlessly self-seeking motives, an obnoxiously overconfident demeanor, and purposefully disingenuous designs. Humility of heart combats feelings of entitlement and actions rooted in resentment. Christians do not lie to appear to be keeping up with the Jones. A humble Believer does not make a big fuss over themselves because they keep Christ in clear view. What is stated in their resumes is true of them. They do not overestimate their value, nor do they underestimate their potential or capability. They have God’s perspective of their strengths and are deeply thankful for his gifts in their lives. Humble people are able to navigate away from deceptive behaviors and statements because they heartily identify with the truth and fidelity. They have no PR person and fervently reject the ‘spin machine.’ By default integrity is their modus operandi. While envy, selfishness, pride, and lying are primary features of worldly wisdom, it has no place in godly wisdom at all. When we are tempted to employ these motives or designs we are operating under the influence of worldly wisdom.     

So there you have it! According to the Word of God worldly wisdom is jealous, selfish, prideful, and deceptive! We must ask the Lord to examine our hearts to reveal when our actions are motivated by self-aggrandizement and arrogance. Trusting the Spirit of God to show us ourselves as we look into the Scriptures is a healthy habit. A failure to do this will lead to lives marked by worldly wisdom, and we will be oblivious of it because these motives are the typical ways our world function. Everybody thinks in these terms...except believers enlighten by God's Spirit and the Word of God. Unless we are willing to face ourselves in the mirror of God's truth we will live under the deception of worldly wisdom. The consequences of such ‘wisdom’ spell death to our service, relationships, and professional aspirations. We may become prominent in the estimations of men, but never will such motives win the approval of God. So I ask once more...are you influenced by worldly wisdom?

Thinking In Spiritual Terms

Phil 3:17-21, Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample. 18, (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19, Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.) 20, For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: 21, Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

Ephes. 2:6, And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

Col. 3:1-3, If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. [2] Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. [3] For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

When we recognize Heaven as our spiritual country and home, it changes the way we view life here and what we emphasize while we live here on earth each day. This different emphasis is evident in our thinking and therefore our lifestyle. Our decisions are constantly screened through this grid of our perspectives.  What’s important to us as members of a heavenly community is different from those who are of the worldly perspective.

EMPHASIZING SPIRITUAL THINKING (Phil. 3:20)

   1.  What Does Spiritual Mean?

The word "spiritual" has suffered as much abuse as the word "fellowship."

      A.  The Wrong Idea.

Too many people think that a “spiritual Christian” is mystical, dreamy, impractical, and distant. Basically out of touch with reality! (Wiersbe)

You see a person can supposedly be ‘spiritual’ without ever having been saved.  In reference to Eastern religions, many feel that they are spiritual because they chant, sit with their legs crossed in a trance, or recite a memorized prayer. Then there is the example that is most familiar to us all who have been in church for any given period of time, when he prays, he shifts his voice into a sepulchral tone in tremolo and goes to great lengths to inform God of the things He already knows. Unfortunately, this kind of unctuous piety is a poor example of true spirituality. Others are convinced that if their list of service endeavors is filled with ‘Christian’activities then it indicates they are truly spiritual.  Again these are powerfully wrong ideas.

      B.  The Correct Idea.

To be spiritually minded does not require one to be impractical and mystical. Quite the contrary, the spiritual mind makes the believer think more clearly and get things done more efficiently.

Romans 8:4-7, That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. [5] For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. [6] For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. [7] Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

          1. Not Those Who Walk After the Flesh.    Rom. 8:4

These are not saved, and they obey the pulses and drives of their old sinful nature.  They live to gratify the flesh and cater to themselves primarily— they literally seek to satisfy their body.

          2.  Those Who Walk After the Spirit.  Vs. 4, 6     

These are true believers, and they rise above the power of the fleshly carnal nature and emphasize the importance of an eternal perspective.  They are rightfully occupied with the Word of God, prayer, worship, Christian service, and a daily yielding to the Holy Spirit.

          3.  We Walk and Live in a Spiritual Sphere.  Vs. 6

The Holy Spirit is our guarantee for a real life, characterized by peace with God, and tranquility of heart.  We live in a different sphere of reality.  Just as fish live in water and people in the air, so is the believer living in the Spirit.

    2.  What Does Spiritual Mind Mean?

       A.  Having Heaven’s Point of View.      

Col. 3:2, Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

           1.  To be “spiritually minded” (Rom. 8:6) simply means to look at earth from heaven's point of view.

           2.  It is to give your heart–“your affection”– to the heavenly things and spiritual considerations, we do not allow ourselves to become consumed with the passing things of earth.

           3.  Literally it is a practice of occupying your minds with the things of God–“set your affection,”–and not merely concentrating on and living for this life on earth alone.   There is more to life then this!  

We should therefore, purpose in our hearts to occupy our minds with all that goes into life under the direction and power of the Spirit. Since the Holy Spirit produces a certain pattern for living and a way of thinking, our goal is “to be spiritually minded”—to mind and be mindful of the Spirit. Practically this means, making the Spirit’s character the object of our mind, the goal and focus of our actions, we must faithfully cultivate the graces of the Spirit in our hearts, and submit ourselves completely to his direct influence in our soul. To be spiritually minded, we seek those feelings and views which the Holy Spirit produces, and follow his leadership in our daily decisions.

       B.  Having a Dual Citizenship.

            1.  It is Not Merely Concentrating on Heaven. D.L. Moody used to scold Christians for being "so heavenly minded they were no earthly good," and that exhortation still needs to be heeded.

           2.  Christians have a dual citizenship - on earth and in heaven - and our citizenship in heaven ought to make us better people here on earth.

      C.  Having Eternal Values and Not Temporal.

          1.  The spiritually minded believer is not attracted by the "things" of this world.

1 John 2:15-17,  Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. [16] For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. [17] And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

Lot selected the well watered plains of Jordan because his values were worldly, and ultimately he lost everything.

         2.  He makes his decisions on the basis of eternal values and not the passing fads of society.

Moses refused the pleasures and treasures of Egypt because he had something infinitely more wonderful to live for. Hebrews 11:24-26, By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; [25] Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; [26] Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.

Mark 8:36, For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?

Philip. 3:12,  Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

Our most important goal should be getting to know Christ better. Paul says that his goal is to know Christ, to be like Christ, and to be all Christ has in mind for him. This goal absorbed all of Paul’s energy. This is a helpful example for us. We should not let anything take our eyes off our goal—Christ. With the single-mindedness of an athlete in training, we must lay aside everything harmful and forsake anything that may distract us from being effective Christians. What is holding you back?

EMPHASIZING SPIRITUAL LIVING  (Phil. 3:20)

Certainly the way we think, influences greatly the pattern of our lifestyle. And of course our lives demonstrate our value system.

    1.  What Does Heaven Have to Do With My Life Right Now?

“For our conversation is in heaven” (Phil 3:20).

       A.  Conversation Has to do With Conduct.

Philip. 1:27, Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

The old English word “conversation” usually refers to our conduct, behavior, and lifestyle, but here it has a much broader meaning to encompass ‘the behavior of a community or citizenship obligations.’

            1.  A Conduct Consistent With Being Citizens of the Heavenly Country.

Here we are citizens of the USA living wherever on earth; we have our leaders and presidents, our legislators and law-makers, our duties, and our privileges. It is a shadow of heavenly things.

            2.  A Conduct Consistent With Being a Member of the Heavenly City– New Jerusalem.

The heavenly Jerusalem, the city of the living God, is our true home, our continuing city.  (See Rev. 21:10-27)

       B.  Conversation Has to do With Citizenship.

The terms “conversation” in Phil. 3:20, would include, “community,” “governmental administration,” “political order,” “behavior of the citizens.”  It has to do with the way we actually live as a citizen of a nation, colony, or city.  

Much like the Pilgrims living in America–the new world–during the 1600 and 1700 in the 13 colonies were actually citizens of England, though they lived on a different continent.  Therefore, they were subjects of the king and responsible to the laws of England.  Likewise Christians in New Testament Churches are colonies of Heaven– subject to the authority and laws of our Sovereign. Why? Because our citizenship is up there!

                                                                                                           

             1.  Almighty God is King of Our Country!

                   *   The almighty God, King of kings and Lord of lords, is the center of that vast communion.

                   *   The blessed angels, our guardians, are his ministers, standing before him, to do his will.

                   *   The saints, living and departed, are our fellow-citizens, the general assembly and Church of the Firstborn who are written in heaven, and the spirits just men made perfect.

Hebrews 12:22-23,  But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, [23] To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,

             2.  All of Our Privileges Extend from Heaven to Us!

Ephes. 1:3, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:

There we have our privileges,

                    *  The grace of God,

                    *  The help of the Holy Spirit of God,

                    *  The hope of everlasting blessedness.

                    *  The peace of God that passes all understanding.

                    *  The sweet communion of the Lord.

                    *  The Fellowship of the Family of God.

             3.  All of Our Responsibilities Extend to Us Here!

Matthew 22:37-38, Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. [38] This is the first and great commandment.

  

Therefore, we have our duties, all growing from the one highest law of love: "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart;... thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself."

Every believer is a citizen of Heaven and God has fully accepted each of us as His own children.  Ephes. 2:19, Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; We are not strangers to Heaven, we instead belong to the royal family in that city! We must recognize that we have a responsibility to obey the Laws of our country where our citizenship is.  We much daily live in complete submission to the authority of our King— the Lord Jesus Christ– first and foremost.  Our conduct ought to be becoming of a citizen of the heavenly country and the heavenly Father’s household.  As we seek to execute our responsibilities as a citizen, we must take full advantage of all our privileges in Christ to ensure we fulfill his will for us. Making full use of prayer, the Word, the leadership of the Holy Ghost, and the counsel of godly brethren should be our focus.  Acknowledge Christ’s authority in your life, employ your spiritual privileges as you fulfill your god-given responsibilities (Wiersbe).

                                                                       

    2.  How Does Spiritual Thinking Relate to Spiritual Living?  Rom. 12:1-2

Paul is encouraging us to have the spiritual mind, and he does this by pointing out the characteristics of the Christian whose citizenship is in Heaven. Just as Philippi was a colony of Rome on foreign soil, so the churches are “colonies of Heaven” here on earth.

Think about it . . . our real home is Heaven right now. We are citizens of the heavenly world first and of the earthly world second.  Col. 3:1-3, If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. [2] Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. [3] For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.  The highest loyalty and allegiance should be to that kingdom first and foremost. The promise of service should be to our great Master the Lord Jesus in all purity and holiness.  Our home is in Heaven, where Jesus is; it is so new. “Ye are come . . . unto the city of the living God;” “Ye are fellow-citizens with the saints.”  Therefore “seek those things which are above.”  There in Heaven must be the place of our treasures; there is where we must focus our hearts. We should try by God's grace to fill our minds with the blessed thought of Heaven, to make a point to meditate daily upon what it means to belong to that city, its never-ending worship, its unclouded view of the Divine beauty. For there we hope to spend the ages of the everlasting life.  Let us try to fill our thoughts and imaginations with it now, not with the poor prizes of earthly success, worldly popularity, fleshly appetites, and prideful pursuits.  Let us seek to realize those striking words, “Our conversation is in heaven.”

The Spiritually Minded Believer is able to focus on Spiritual Blessings and still maintain a very practical and meaningful life. We should live down to earth even though we are seated in heavenly places.  Keep your spiritual privileges in clear view because they will guide you to make decisions consistent with Heavenly Citizenship.