Steve Jobs just died. I do not know if he became a Christian before he died. I hope so. I believe that we can learn from his life and death in either case. I want to pose a question. Did he live a successful life?

Steve Jobs was successful by every standard that this world might use to measure success. He helped start a company that changed the technology of the world. He helped develop and bring to market devices that change the way we talk on the phone, listen to music, and access the internet. He was wealthy. He was a great speaker and had a charismatic personality.

But, was he successful as God would define success? Let's explore. How about his money? His money could not keep him alive and I guarantee that it is not helping him in his standing with God. How about the companies he started and ran or the products that he created? The products will be outdated within two years. The companies will be supplanted by someone starting a newer company at some point in history. He improved our lives but in ways that will matter only for a short time.

A successful life is a life that is lived in light of eternity. A successful life touches people for eternity. A successful life points people to the only source of true happiness, Jesus Christ. This is not a criticism of Steve Jobs. This is a warning to those of us that he left behind.

In Christ,
Scott