Coach: Ask your student to read out-loud the below title and the text in the two boxes. Then ask them to comment on how often they actually think one way versus the other way.
So, what’s all this got to do with being successful?
If you see God as approving you mostly when you achieve things according to his expectations, then you will be trapped in a never-ending futile pursuit of walking on the egg shells of His impossibly righteous Holiness—and you will never feel truly and safely successful.
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On the other hand, if you see God as having already accomplished all the requirements of your righteousness in the finished work of Jesus Christ, you will see Jesus as your Sabbath Rest, and you will be drawn in freedom to a growing intimacy with God. This will be your success—a success that is fully provided to you by the finished work of Jesus, and is in no way dependent on your accomplishments.
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An opportunity for spiritual training:
As you desire success in your life, you will see it as either a result of your achievement, or you will see it as something that is amply provided to you by Jesus and is experienced through a growing intimacy with God.
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When you sense that God is looking more at what you are accomplishing than the affection you have for Him, STOP.
For discussion with your coach: What are some examples of times when you act as though you think God is looking more at what you are accomplishing, than on the affection you have for Him? What should you do when you realize this is happening? |
Coach: Discuss both of these practical exercises with your student. Then consider assigning one or both of them for homework to be journaled before your next coaching session.
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When you feel proud for doing great things for God or disappointed because you are not measuring up, STOP.
For discussion with your coach:
For discussion with your coach:
- Is it true that “success” is really your profound intimacy with God that grows as your your relationship with Jesus grows (John 17:3And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. (ESV))?
- Is it true that you have already won when you were invited to the party?
- Is it true that your success is found in the love given to you by the One who made you righteous and complete?
- How might you practice celebrating this success (Philippians 2:12-13Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure. (ESV))? (Remember: Do NOT focus on your efforts, but on God’s provision.)
