I heard a quote that hit different this time around. Maybe you’ve heard it too:

“Success is never owned. It’s rented. And the rent is due every day.”
— Rory Vaden, Take the Stairs

I’d heard it before. Probably nodded and moved on. But then I listened to it again in the audiobook, and this time… it stuck.

Why?

Because I had just reminded my wife to pay the rent.

Normally she beats me to it. Grabs the envelope. Pays early. Moves on. But that month? Nothing. And it threw me. Not because we were behind—but because we almost forgot. Rent doesn’t care how busy your life is. It’s due regardless.

You’re Not the Owner

We’re renting a house right now. It’s not ours. The space, the walls, the paint color we didn’t choose… it all belongs to someone else. And while we take care of it, we know we’ll leave one day.

It’s a humbling kind of freedom, really.

And it made me think—this business we’re building?
This calling we’re walking out?
We’re not the owner.

We’re tenants. Stewards.
God’s the Landlord.

Jesus even told a story about this. Matthew 21:33-46—the parable of the tenants. The landowner (God) leases his vineyard out and expects a return. But the tenants rebel. They want the fruit, but not the responsibility.

Sound familiar?

You’re on Assignment

When you show up to work—whether it’s behind a desk, on a call, in a truck, or running a team—you’re on Kingdom assignment. And the “rent” isn’t money.

It’s:

• How you treat your employees

• How you lead with integrity

• The way you handle stress, setbacks, and slow seasons

• The faith you bring into every decision

You don’t just owe rent when times are good.
You owe it daily. And it’s paid through obedience, excellence, and faithfulness.

Reflection Time

Today, ask yourself:

• Am I managing God’s business or just hustling for my own?

• Would my “landlord” say I’m stewarding well?

• Is my leadership bearing fruit—or just making noise?

If the answer stings a little, don’t run from it. That’s the Holy Spirit reminding you to realign. Spend time in Matthew 21 and let it soak.

And if you’re walking faithfully today, pause and let this sink in:

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
— Matthew 25:21

That’s the only review that really matters.

– Lyle

P.S. The Kingdom’s not short on opportunities. But God is looking for faithful renters. Pay the rent today.

Success is rented: We are God's tenants and caretakers of His business. #ChristianBusiness #ChristianEntrepreneur #takethestairs Share on X