The definition of success has been debated for centuries. That debate continues today, where many believe that their career, their grades, or their looks determine their success in life. However, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints teaches a different definition for success—one that the Lord teaches.
God sees success as our attempts to become more like him. While these attempts may not always produce the results we desire, God is pleased with our sincere efforts. Because He knows our hearts and our true desires, He knows when we have truly changed. God is always thrilled when we give our best efforts to draw closer to Him. Sometimes, our efforts are met with resistance. This can come from another person’s improper use of his or her agency. All people are given agency, or the ability to choose. Because agency is such a priceless gift and God loves us, He will never force us to act in any particular way. This means that people often use their agency incorrectly, in a way that may harm others or prevent you from reaching your goals.
In the face of what can feel like defeat, it can be easy to give up or stop trying. Thoughts of failure creep up on us and can take control without a proper understanding of success. Those who understand that God is proud of them truly feel successful because they feel God’s love. In the Book of Mormon, the prophet Nephi declares, “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy” (2 Nephi 2:25). When we feel the joy that comes from serving God, we can know we are successful in our efforts. True success cannot come without experiencing the love of God. Following our Heavenly Father is the only way to feel satisfied with our work. God cares more about our spiritual growth than any position we may hold or grade we may have.
