The definition of success varies in the dictionary. According to one dictionary, success is:

That which comes after; hence, consequence, issue, or result, of an endeavor or undertaking, whether good or bad; the outcome of effort.

Another definition is:

A state of prosperity or fame.

This second definition is more along the lines of the typical paradigm of American success. But, is true success about money or fame?

True success is defined as:

True success is achieving the purposes for which God created us.

No amount of money or fame can provide happiness. Just look at Hollywood.

Principles

There are seven Basic Life Principles that I base my life on.

1. Design

Understanding the specific purposes for which God created each person, object, and relationship in my life and living in harmony with them. Thanking God for my design brings Self-Acceptance.

2. Authority

Honoring the responsibilities of parents, church leaders, government, and other authorities and learning how God works through them to provide direction and protection. Honoring my authorities brings Inward Peace.

3. Responsibility

Realizing I am accountable to God for every thought, word, action, and motive. Asking forgiveness of those I offend brings a Clear Conscience.

4. Suffering

Allowing the hurts from offenders to reveal “blind spots” in my own life, and then seeing how I can benefit their lives. Fully forgiving offenders brings Genuine Joy.

5. Ownership

Understanding that everything I have has been entrusted to me by God, and wisely using it for His purposes. Yielding my rights to God brings True Security.

6. Freedom

Enjoying the desire and power to do what is right, rather than claiming the privilege to do what I want. Regaining ground surrendered to sin brings Moral Purity.

7. Success

Discovering God’s purpose for my life by engrafting Scripture in my heart and mind, and using it to “think God’s thoughts” and make wise decisions. Meditating on Scripture brings Life Purpose.

I learned about these principles from the Institute in Basic Life Principles. If you want true success I highly recommend going through the Basic Seminar which is now available to watch through the Embassy Institute.