Two friends were called by God to do inner-city youth ministry over the summer. They both led by grace and not law. They both served out of desire and not duty. They both prayed fervently and trusted that God's ministry through them would lead the youth to experience the reality and transformation of Christ. One led dozens of kids to Christ, while the other only managed to build relationships with the kids. Now, which of these two was most successful?

Actually, both were! Surprised? God's definition of success is not based on the results we may be able to see, or count. Instead, it's a simple matter of trust and obedience. If by faith, we trust in Christ as our life and obediently walk in the path He has set before us, God calls us good and faithful servants.

1 Samuel 16:7 offers a glimpse into the way God views success: “The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."

Remember, God has gifted each of us in different ways. Measuring our lives by some earthly standard is just not accurate, no matter how successful we appear. Instead, let's focus on His standard of grace... loving trust, and faithful obedience.