How should Christians think about success? Should you rent or buy a home? And who is the Master of Retirement?
These questions and more are answered in this week's 5 for Friday.
1. Freedom from the Tyranny of “Success” by Aaron Armstrong. In our ministries we often define success with “orthodoxy” or “fruitfulness”. But each of these can be twisted by pride and undermined by sin. The true measure of success for the Christian is faithfulness. Whether your ministry is growing or not, what matters is obedience to God. That faithful obedience is what defines Christian success.
2. Successful and Unhappy (How Can it Be?)by Scott Sauls. Some of the most “successful” people have also happened to be the most discontent, sad, and isolated. This can happen to any of us who allow power, luxury, or achievement to grip us as a source of significance. Instead, a Biblical understanding of work helps us to both work hard and thank God for his blessings.
3. The Problem(s) with our Efficiency Idol by Brandon Giella. It is good to steward our time in a way that is pleasing to God. But has a desire for efficiency replaced trust in God? We need to consider whether our efficiency is God’s priority. Slowing down doesn’t mean being wasteful. Even the Son of God confined himself to the efficiency of mere human feet.
4. Renting vs. Buying: How to Decide What’s Right for Your Budget by Budget Mom. Should you rent or buy a home? Budget mom gives a fair assessment of the pros and cons of each route. Renting a home gives you more life and monetary flexibility, at the expense of building equity. Buying a home can help you build equity, put down roots, and provide tax deductions, but limits life and monetary flexibility.
5. The Master of Retirement by Chris Cagle. Paul has challenging words for servants and masters (i.e. employers and employees) in Ephesians 6—Christ is the true master of all. But even those who are retired are under the authority of Christ, who is the Master of Retirement. Whatever you find yourself doing in the years after your career, let it be with the Master in mind.
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