3 John 1:2 – “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.”
Romans 1:10 – “Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you.”
1 Corinthians 16:2 – “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.”
Prosper - yoo-od-o'-o
From a compound of G2095 and G3598; to help on the road, that is, (passively) succeed in reaching; figuratively to succeedin business affairs: - (have a) prosper (-ous journey).
Introduction
• Define success from a Biblical perspective as fulfilling God’s purpose and living obediently to His Word.
o "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success" (Joshua 1:8).
• Explain the distinction between worldly success (wealth, status) and spiritual success (faith, obedience, fruitfulness).
I. Secret #1 – Align Yourself with God’s Vision
A. God’s plan is the blueprint for true success.
1. "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end" (Jeremiah 29:11).
2. "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" (Matthew 6:33).
B. How to Align Yourself with God’s Vision for Your Life:
1. Spend time in prayer and study of Scriptures to discern God’s will for your life.
2. Evaluate your goals and ensure they align with God’s purpose.
C. Encouragement: Trust God even when His plan doesn’t seem clear at first.
II. Secret #2 – Operate in Faith and Confidence
A. Faith is the foundation of success in the Kingdom of God.
1. "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).
2. "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1).
B. Tips for Operating in Faith and Confidence:
1. Develop unwavering trust in God’s promises by confessing His Word daily.
2. Take bold steps based on God’s leading even when the outcomes are unseen.
3. “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.” (Hebrews 10:35)
III. Secret #3 – Speak the Word of God Boldly
A. Your words shape your destiny. Speak God’s Word over your life and activity to create success.
1. "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof" (Proverbs 18:21).
2. "For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith" (Mark 11:23).
B. Speaking Correctly is one of the Primary Success Secrets Taught from the Bible
1. Avoid speaking words of doubt or fear. Replace them with declarations of faith.
2. Memorize and repeatedly confess key Bible verses about victory and purpose.
IV. Secret #4 – Maintain a Spirit of Diligence and Integrity
A. Success requires consistent effort and adherence to righteousness.
1. "The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute" (Proverbs 12:24).
2. "Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men" (Proverbs 22:29).
3. "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold" (Proverbs 22:1).
B. Practicing Diligence and Fostering Integrity Requires Deliberate Effort and Intention:
1. Be diligent and trustworthy in all areas of your life (work, family, ministry).
2. Develop Godly habits and a reputation for integrity.
C. Exercising diligence and upholding integrity not only cultivates meaningful outcomes but also unlocks pathways to influence and the favor of others.
V. Secret #5 – Develop a Heart of Gratitude and Generosity
A. Living with a heart of gratitude and generosity are keys to unlocking God’s blessings.
1. "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again" (Luke 6:38).
2. "The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad" (Psalm 126:3).
3. "But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully" (2 Corinthians 9:6).
B. Understanding and applying the principles of gratitude and generosity is essential to experiencing the form of success outlined in the Bible:
1. Cultivate the habit of thanking God daily for His provision and faithfulness.
2. Look for opportunities to give, whether financially, with time, or in service.
VI. Secret #6 – Persevere Through Challenges
A. Success in God’s Kingdom requires endurance and trust in His timing.
1. "And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not" (Galatians 6:9).
2. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me" (Psalm 23:4).
B. Trusting God in Tough Times
1. Keep trusting God during trials, remembering that His promises are sure.
2. Surround yourself with faith-filled individuals who will encourage you to keep going.
VII. Secret #7 – Be Led by the Holy Spirit
A. The Holy Spirit provides guidance and empowerment for your success.
1. "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth" (John 16:13).
2. "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you" (Acts 1:8).
B. It Takes the Holy Ghost:
1. Develop a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit through prayer and worship.
2. Allow His guidance to influence every decision you make.
VIII. Secret #8 – Stay Connected to the Body of Christ
A. Fellowship brings accountability, support, and spiritual growth.
1. "Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend" (Proverbs 27:17).
2. "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them" (Matthew 18:20).
B. God did not call us to isolation, He called us to community:
1. Commit to being an active part of a local church.
2. Seek mentorship and join a group that fosters spiritual growth and encouragement.
Conclusion
• Success, according to the Bible, is not merely about personal gain but about fulfilling God’s purpose and being a blessing to others.
• Challenge the audience to apply these Biblical principles and pursue success that glorifies God.
• Close with a prayer that God will guide and empower all to live successful lives according to His perfect will.
