Case Studies
JANE'S STRUGGLE WITH SUCCESS
Jane is an excellent young lawyer who aspires to become a partner in her law firm. She loves her work -- so much so that she puts in many late nights, and even works two or three weekends a month to demonstrate her loyalty and support for the firm.
Jane's hard work, perseverance, and intellectual smarts may soon pay off. Her boss has given indications that she is being considered for partnership in the organization. This will add substantially both to Jane's professional stature as well as to her income.
However, for some time Jane has sensed that her life may be somewhat out of balance. She feels nagging guilt over being away from her husband and three children so much. He is terribly proud of her achievements, but recently he's complained that she is becoming a stranger to him.
Meanwhile, Jane's children are growing up fast! Her son is almost a teenager already. Jane worries that the boy seems so shy and insecure around his peers. And her two little daughters seem to quarrel constantly. Their behavior irritates her when she comes home, tired and just wanting a quiet rest. She finds herself looking for excuses to stay at the office until after their bedtime.
In her few private moments, Jane finds that her relationship with Christ is superficial. She almost never has time to read her Bible, and prays only at family meals or at church. On the other hand, she contributes what she feels is a sizable amount to her church and to a local youth home. Her pastor has even thanked her on occasion for her support and told her, "We really rely on you, Jane!"
All in all, Jane feels that she is on the verge of success. She still has her nagging doubts about her family life with the perspective: "If I can just get that partnership, I'll be able to spend more time with my family. We'll be able to afford all kinds of fun activities together!"
Discussion
Questions
Why do you think regular Bible reading has slipped from Jane's schedule?
Do you think Jane's lifestyle demonstrates a biblical view of success?
Do you agree that one's behavior indicates his/her true beliefs about success? Why?
What steps could Jane take to implement a biblical view of success?
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