Achieving in the areas that matter

Matthew 16:26-27  " 'What good will it be if a man gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?  Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?' "

Many people (men, in particular) are very focused on achievement.  Men have a competitive spirit that causes them to want to win and/or be viewed favorably by others.  The desire to succeed can be purely selfish (it fills a void or bandages a wound that no one else really knows about) or it can be quite sacrificial (achievement as a means of showing love for, and providing for, one's spouse and children).

The drive to succeed is not inherently bad.  God designed us, and I believe this is a basic trait He gave us.  The focus of our desire to achieve is the part where we sometimes stumble.  I believe men can be influenced to view achievement in worldly terms.  We like to keep score, and what easier way is there to keep score in life than money and possessions?

Jesus reminds us that this type of achievement holds no eternal value, and does not redeem our souls.  What if we could redirect that energy and desire toward achieving in the areas that matter to God?