| 1:58 MIN READ |

In 1967 a new breakfast and snack food was introduced to the world. We know it as Pop Tarts. At some point, you’ve probably tried one.

The attractive thing about the Pop Tart is how quickly you can prepare it. Here are the instructions for microwaving: “1. Place pastry on a microwave-safe plate. 2. Microwave on high setting for 3 seconds. 3. Cool briefly before handling.”

Yes, in 3 seconds it’s ready to eat! Or, if you prefer them room temperature, skip the microwave and sink your teeth in immediately! Fast, quick, immediate, now — all these words explain part of the popularity of the Pop Tart.

Our need for speed doesn’t stop with food; it’s part of modern life. We want what we want, and we want it now. Don’t ask us to wait. Don’t ask us to defer gratification. We have a “3-second rule!” Give it to us now.

The problem is, not all things are good for us right now. Some things are better later! This is what the Bible teaches us in Proverbs 20:21 (TPT) “If an inheritance is gained too early in life, it will not be blessed in the end.”

Solomon reminded us that back-end success is better than front-end success. A success quickly gained on the front end of life can be squandered and lost by poor choices along the way. Success gained on the back-end of life is likely accompanied by wisdom and character gained by time and experience. This allows a person to handle the blessings better.

We’ve all seen examples of this. Someone gets a big inheritance or financial opportunity at a young age, and in a reasonably short time, it’s gone — wasted. Why? They lacked the wisdom and experience to handle it.

We gain wisdom through time and experience. Indeed, there are plenty of old fools, and we’re all vulnerable to stupid decisions at any age, but quick, early prosperity has taken down many.

The lesson? Live for the long haul. Don’t spend your life focused on success. Focus on wisdom instead. If you get wisdom, you’ll discover true success in the end!

Pastor Dale

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