Growing up, February was a month packed with celebrations—my brother and sister’s birthdays, Valentine’s Day (Mom made it extra fun!), and two presidential birthdays that meant days off from school. Back then, we had Lincoln’s birthday (Feb. 12) and Washington’s birthday (Feb. 22) off—until Congress consolidated them into Presidents’ Day on the third Monday of the month.

Presidents Washington and Lincoln understood the importance of faith woven into every part of life. Like our Founding Fathers, they knew that belief in God was central to true success.

But what about you?

Consider

Proverbs 3:13-14:

Blessed are those who find wisdom,

those who gain understanding,

for she is more profitable than silver

and yields better returns than gold.

Success isn’t just about reaching goals—it’s about growing in wisdom along the way. Think about a time when you felt genuinely successful. What led you there? Was it a career milestone? A restored relationship? Overcoming a personal challenge?

Struggles often shape success. Just as Washington and Lincoln faced obstacles that pushed them to seek wisdom and defined their legacy, your challenges can be stepping stones to greater wisdom and strength.

Reflect

How would you define success in your life today?

• What wisdom have you gained through your challenges?
• What’s one small step you can take this week toward the life God is calling you to?

God doesn’t measure success the way the world does. He measures it by our relationship with him, trusting him, and allowing him to change us from the inside out.

🙏🏻 May I pray for you?

Dear God, thank you for walking with Reader in every season. Help Reader see that success isn’t about achievement alone but about growing in wisdom and faith. Remind Reader that you are guiding their steps, and give them the courage to pursue what truly matters. Amen.