Success and God

I know some very "successful" people - people with power, wealth, position, etc. and these people seem to have it all together. They are people who have fought their way from the bottom up, and have overcome problems and issues and fears to become positive, happy, and . . . . well . . . . successful.
I have to admit this is a bit disconcerting for me. I have been taught to believe that only Christ can bring freedom, and He is the only way to get over our problems, etc, etc . . . I'm sure you've this too - even on this blog!! Yet, here are some people who have overcome major addictions and fears all on their own (or so it seems). So I sat down with God and just asked Him "How?" How can these people, through "positive thinking" or other eastern religious acts, how can they have this freedom and success that I thought was only possible from Him. Basically, I was asking (yes, I had the audacity) "why "Jesus," if we don't necessarily need Him in this process?"
His response went something like this:
"You know, Andrea, life with Me isn't about greatness - it's actually about servant hood and humility. And freedom and all that stuff is awesome, and something I want for you, but that's not what this is all about - sure, it's a great benefit and by-product, but is not all I am after. This thing is all about simply being in a relationship. What you have and they don't, is that you know Me - we talk and walk and live life together. No amount of positive thinking, overcoming fears or addictions, or freedom can produce that. That's what it's about - getting to know Me, and you do that by following Me. . . and the more you hang out with Me, the more you'll begin to act like Me, and that produces things that will change the world! Not money, power, success or any other such nonsense, but love, compassion, mercy . . ."
So, these great people may overcome and achieve, but ultimately they are the ones missing out. They are missing out on the most amazing relationship ever! They are missing out on the opportunity to truly change the world!! But, God has a way of coming into the lives of people who have it all together, and messing things up . . . I think I'm ready for God to mess up my life, and take me down the path few dare travel.
Will you join me?