Both prominent and polarizing, Christian evangelist and California megachurch founder Rick Warren has been cited as an inspiration by many people around the world.
Although some people find his bold opinions and outspoken style to be offensive, the masses of American Christians who consider Warren to be a man of God certainly look to him for words of wisdom when it comes to their own decisions and direction in life.
From his daily devotional post on his website and his best-selling book, "The Purpose Driven Life," to his many speeches and interviews through the years, Warren has had many outlets for lending guidance to his followers.
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With an overall theme of looking to God's word for guidance with earthly endeavors and interactions, Warren's words have impacted countless people during the last three decades.
Seven of his most unforgettable statements about success are explored here:
1. "I don't know the keys to success, but one key to failure is to try to please everyone," Warren is quoted as writing in his widely acclaimed book "The Purpose Driven Life," which is now considered to be one of the best-selling nonfiction books in history and was Warren's catapult to fame among other Christians.
2. "Being successful and fulfilling your life's purpose are not at all the same thing; You can reach all your personal goals, become a raving success by the worlds standard, and still miss your purpose in this life," he also wrote in the book.
3. "Passion drives perfection," he once noted in a devotional on his website.
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4. Always one to encourage his people to embrace their fellow Christians, Warren reminds them to work together toward common goals. "Success is never a one-man job; it takes teamwork," he said.
5. "God is for your success in life; He created you for a purpose and he wants you to succeed. It is God, your Creator, who will measure your success in life, and no one else," he wrote to his fellow believers. This quote, perhaps, best epitomizes Warren's message to Christians.
6. "If you want your life to have impact, focus it! Stop dabbling. Stop trying to do it all. Do less. Prune away even good activities and do only that which matters most. Never confuse activity with productivity. You can be busy without a purpose, but what's the point?"
7. "It is a fatal mistake to assume that God's goal for your life is material prosperity or popular success, as the world defines it. The abundant life has nothing to do with material abundance, and faithfulness to God does not guarantee success in a career or even in ministry. Never focus on temporary crowns," Warren reminds his readers, outlining the unimportance of material success in his teachings.
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