In America schools give an award, which as a youngster I won, by the way, entitled, “Most Likely To Succeed”. In the two-thirds world, the banner might well read, “Most Likely to Survive”. Life is discharged on a more provisional level. Precious little time remains for accrual and achievement when one is merely trying to make ends meet, or more precisely, make it to the end.
I recall once hearing the endearing term in the United States, “discretionary income”. Such concept, I suspect, would be lost upon much of the remaining world.
I assert with complete confidence that the gospel of Jesus Christ speaks to any and all persons in whatever situation ranging from extravagance to depravity. (I know, I have ministered across the spectrum.) However, exactly what the gospel says depends upon their contextual ears to receive it, the proclaimer’s adaptive abilities to present it, and the Holy Spirit’s redemptive sensitivity to apply it!
The Apostle Paul confirmed such in Philippians when he stated that in Christ he had learned to be content in abundance and in absence. Hence, harbor no need to feel bad for what you have, so long as you feel for those who have not. When you share what you possess, particularly Christ in both word and deed, it is sufficient.
It’s been nearly four decades since I was named “Most Likely to Succeed”. Whether I qualify as a success, you be the judge. I am qualified however, to divulge the secret of success. You succeed when you help others succeed.