You Need A Vision, Not A Formula

Many of us are seeking a strategy from the world without understanding God’s vision for our ministry. Because of this, many of us may find ourselves building something God never intended us to. If God has called you to a crowded area of ministry, you might feel tempted to mimic someone who is successful there, as opposed to following His lead. This may look like you searching online for a method to succeed before consulting God.

God's Plan vs. Success Formulas

Success Formulas = An Outcome

This can lead to a financial success model that enables you to live an abundant lifestyle with ease and minimal effort. Alternatively, you could also find yourself in the position of building a ministry or business that competes with others who are simultaneously striving to reach the same audience, all while trying to stand out using the same proven formula. While this approach may indeed prove effective for some individuals, it does not guarantee that it will work for you personally.

This is exactly why, as believers, we need to seek God first, as encouraged in Matthew 6:33. In addition to that, we must diligently test everything we come across (1 Thessalonians 5:21) before jumping to the conclusion that this is the specific formula God intends for us to follow. Additionally, 1 Corinthians 10:5 emphasises the importance of taking every thought captive, reminding us to be intentional in our pursuit of success.

From A Biblical Perspective—How Do We Achieve Success?

Success formulas are primarily focused on reaching a specific outcome or effectively solving a particular problem. For example, everyone desires financial success, which can be achieved through a proven formula or strategy. However, in order to experience true godly success, we must seek God for the guidance, wisdom, and direction that align with His divine purpose for our lives.

This process requires prayer, faith, and a willingness to listen for His voice, leading us to not just succeed by the world’s standards but to thrive in a way that glorifies Him.

Solomons—Success Plan

King Solomon, known for his wisdom, offers us an example of what it means to seek divine guidance that goes beyond mere formulas. King Solomon, famous for his wisdom, teaches us that true success is deeply rooted in our relationship with God.

In 1 Kings 3:9, when Solomon was granted the opportunity to ask for anything, he chose wisdom over wealth or power. His request reveals a profound understanding that the principles of godly success start with the right priorities. God responded by granting him not only extraordinary wisdom but also riches and honour, showcasing that when we seek Him first, all these things will be added to us (Matthew 6:33).

As women called to minister in the marketplace and online space, we are reminded to cultivate a heart that seeks God’s guidance in every decision. Instead of chasing after financial independence or strategic outcomes, let us embrace the wisdom that Solomon sought. This wisdom leads us to envision success not just as a financial metric, but as fulfilling God’s purpose in our lives.

How To Achieving Success God’s Way

To achieve godly success, we must turn to prayer, immerse ourselves in His Word, and remain open to His direction. Solomon’s life is an example of the narrative that when we prioritise God in our pursuit of success, He provides not just what we need but abundantly more than we could ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

Let us commit to seeking God’s wisdom daily, allowing it to inform our actions, decisions, and understanding of success. In doing so, we align ourselves with divine purpose, ensuring that our work reflects His kingdom in every facet of our lives. When faced with the responsibility of leading Israel, Solomon didn’t rely solely on his own understanding or the knowledge of the day. Instead, he turned to God in prayer, asking for wisdom to govern his people effectively. This act of humility and reliance on God set the foundation for his success.

In our businesses and ministries, we too are called to seek divine wisdom. Just as, we can expect God to guide us through the challenges of the marketplace if we sincerely seek Him. That’s why it’s vital to create space for His voice in the mist of the noise of daily life and business demands.

When faced with tough decisions or uncertainties, let us echo Solomon’s heart by praying earnestly, studying the Word, and leaning into our faith. This commitment not only leads to personal growth but also impacts those around us, enabling us to create environments that reflect God's love and wisdom.

As we navigate our paths, let us remember that true success is not merely a measure of profit or influence but a manifestation of God’s glory through our work. In honouring Him through our endeavours, we transform the marketplace into a mission field, where lives are changed and God’s Kingdom is advanced. May we, like Solomon, seek His wisdom first and foremost, allowing Him to direct our steps and lead us to a success plan that glorifies Him.

God’s Plan = An Opportunity

Unlike rigid formulas or predestined paths that may limit God’s plan for your life, business or ministry, a vision is something tailored to you. It is an individualised strategy designed specifically to help you achieve success according to His will, while leading you step by step as you pursue or work toward the goals He has set before you. This can and will manifest differently, depending on the vision that God imparts to you, unfolding in ways that reflect your personal calling and purpose.

While there is no single formula that works for everyone, there is indeed a specific path that God has uniquely planned out for you. For some of you, this path may resemble that of others within their niche or field, but the thing that sets you apart from the crowd is the thing you will be known for. When you embrace and leverage these unique traits, it will not only show what makes you unique but also reveal the purpose God has for your life.

Biblically Speaking—How Does It Work?

God gives us the ability to discern how and when to use or apply the knowledge we gain from the world around us. This divine wisdom empowers us to navigate our daily lives with purpose and intention, leading us to make choices that align with God’s will. This inspired approach enables Him to download tailored strategies that are uniquely suited to us and the specific people we’re called to serve in ministry and the marketplace.

For some, this may result in a journey filled with trials and tribulations, much like the story of Joseph in the Bible. Joseph faced betrayal by his brothers, unjust imprisonment, and years of waiting before his dreams were fulfilled. Yet through it all, he remained steadfast in his faith, knowing that God had a greater plan for him.

In our own lives, we may encounter similar challenges as we seek to fulfil our divine calling in the marketplace. The setbacks we experience can feel overwhelming, but Joseph’s story reminds us that these moments are often preparation for what God has in store. Just as he was ultimately elevated to a position of great influence and leadership in Egypt, we too can trust that our perseverance and faithfulness will lead us into places of purpose and impact.

Final thought: Don’t Take God's Plan and Make It A Formula

Reducing God's plans to a formula can significantly limit His ability to guide us and hinder our personal relationship with Him. God's plan for each of us are personal, multifaceted, and ever-changing as we navigate ministry and business in the marketplace. This understanding encourages women in ministry—especially those in the marketplace—to adopt a flexible, faith-driven mindset that embraces uncertainty. Instead of a rigid, predefined outcome, we should focus on building God’s plan (a calling tailored to us individually), not a formula—which is a one-size-fits-all strategy.

Remember, the difference between a formula and God’s plan is the source!