Formula for Success

The Bible can be summed up in one word – Jesus.  When we follow the teachings of Jesus we are connected to the Bible in a way that transcends the need for years of verse-by-verse study.  Don’t get me wrong, I believe there is enormous value in a detailed study of the Bible from cover-to-cover; nevertheless, today I’m going to give you a short-cut.

No one explained the teachings of Jesus better than the Apostle Paul.  In chapters twelve and thirteen of the book of Romans, Paul gives us a long list of instruction that thoroughly outlines everything required to live a respectful Christian life.  This is God’s formula for success.  In an effort to make this easy to digest, I’m going to paraphrase this teaching below; however, I encourage you to open your Bible and read these two chapters yourself.

Romans 12 – 13

Don’t simply go along with today’s culture without careful consideration.  Look first to God for guidance.

Don’t consider anything you do to be of value to God.  God is the source of your greatest achievements.

When you share the gospel keep it simple; when you are helping others remain humble; when you’re in charge don’t push people around; when you work with the disadvantaged, remain patient and kind.  Hang on to the joy in your heart.

Don’t give evil any opportunities; overcome evil with good.

Honor others above yourself.

Don’t burn out; stay spiritually healthy

Stay positive no matter what; bring everything to God in prayer.

Do everything you can to help your fellow believers.

Practice hospitality.

Honestly have deep concern for those who hurt you.

Share the joy of others; feel the pain of others.

Live in harmony with others.

Make friends with absolutely anyone; don’t set high standards.

Do not be conceited.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil.

Do your best to get along with everybody.

Revenge is God’s work.

Avoid debt, except the debt of love you owe to others.

Love others as yourself.

Get out of the dark and step into the light!

Stop chasing the things in this world and run toward Jesus Christ.

Reading the Bible from cover-to-cover takes many hours and a complete study will take a lifetime.  The apostle Paul has given you a summation that can be read in a few minutes.  Actually, he has provided one sentence that can summarize this summery.

“Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”  Romans 13:10 (NASB)

The Bible is all about Jesus and Jesus is all about Love.  When we act with love in our heart, we can do no wrong.  That is God’s simple formula for success.

All scripture references are linked to Bible Gateway so that you can read each verse in context.  Bible Gateway allows you to change the verse to your favorite translation and compare it side-by-side with multiple translations.  In addition, you can select to hear an audio version of any verse by clicking on the speaker icon.  Keep the Bible Gateway App on your phone so that you can visit the Word of God at any time during your day.

Final Preparation