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Proverbs 16:9 says, “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” Setting goals can be wise, but how do we pursue our ambitions without allowing success to define us? On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West and bestselling author Jordan Raynor explore what it means to pursue meaningful goals with Christlike confidence, while trusting God with the results. Then, it’s on to calls. That’s Faith and Finance Live . . . biblical wisdom for your financial journey. That’s weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio.

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It frankly would be hard to list all the things Jesus has done for us. The top of the list would be that He loved us enough to die for us. So here’s the question. If we love Jesus, what are we willing to do for Him? If He died for us, are we willing to live for Him? Today on A NEW BEGINNING, Pastor Greg Laurie takes us to the Gospel of John for an important look at a well-known miracle. As we examine this account, we learn a lot about how Jesus wants us to live for Him and speak about Him.

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Setting goals can be a wise and worthwhile pursuit. Whether we're building a career, saving for retirement, improving our health, or investing in our families, goals help us live with purpose and intentionality. But how do we pursue our ambitions without allowing success to define us?

Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, "The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps."

God never intended for our accomplishments to become the measure of our worth. Our identity is secure in Christ, not in what we achieve. That means we can dream boldly, plan wisely, and work faithfully while trusting God with the results.

Bestselling author and entrepreneur Jordan Raynor explores this tension in his book, Redeeming Your Goals: Seven Biblical Principles for Achieving Your Goals with Christ-like Confidence, Consistency, and Character. His message is that Christians don't need less ambition. We need ambition that reflects the heart and purposes of God.

Is ambition itself a problem for Christians? Not according to Raynor.

Jesus Himself lived with a clear purpose. Colossians 1:19–20 describes the remarkable scope of His redemptive work: 

"For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross."

And throughout Scripture, believers are called to live intentionally. In Ephesians 5:15–16, Paul writes, "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil."

The problem, then, isn't necessarily our goals. It's why we're pursuing them and how we measure their success.

Raynor calls Christians to pursue what he describes as redemptive quests—goals pursued with, like, and for God, for His glory and the good of others rather than our own fame or fortune.

Even ordinary ambitions, such as building a business, improving our physical health, or saving for retirement, can become opportunities to glorify God when pursued with the right motives. But there are counterfeit quests that can quietly redirect our ambitions away from God's purposes. Raynor identifies three common examples:

• Renown: Seeking recognition, influence, or personal fame instead of serving others.
• Recreation: Making personal pleasure, experiences, and bucket-list achievements our ultimate pursuits.
• Retirement: Viewing the later years of life as an opportunity to abandon meaningful work in favor of endless leisure.

None of these concerns means that recognition, recreation, or retirement savings are inherently wrong. The danger comes when they become the defining purpose of our lives.

Consider retirement. Preparing financially for a season when we may no longer be able to work for pay is an act of wise stewardship. But retirement from paid employment doesn't mean retirement from God's purposes. 1 Corinthians 15:58 encourages believers:

"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."

Retirement, then, can become an opportunity to redirect our time and experience toward ment

Friendship is one of God’s greatest gifts. We need people who will laugh with us in the good times, walk beside us through the hard times, and remind us we’re not alone. But strong friendships don’t just happen. Becky Harling shows us some practical, biblical ways to become wiser, more intentional friends—and experience the rich relationships God designed us to enjoy.

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Pursue Warm Connections in an Age of Loneliness - You were created for connection and community—but how can you achieve that in an age of social media and isolation? Join Heather Holleman, PhD, along with Jim Daly and John Fuller as they discuss the importance of connecting with others through meaningful conversation.

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Drs. Greg and Erin Smalley interview John James, former lead singer of Newsboys, about overcoming an abusive childhood, his father’s dramatic conversion that led their family to Jesus, and John’s ongoing healing from abandonment, insecurity, and regret. If you or someone you know has made mistakes, if you have secrets, or if you are constantly looking for validation through the things you do -- you'll get a lot from this discussion. The Smalleys then discuss practical strategies for dividing household “mental load,” addressing mismatched sexual desire, and answer a new mom’s question about a disengaged husband.

Newsboy: My Story of Hope and Second Chances – A Rockstar’s Life Transformed by God’s Grace

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You raised them, prayed for them, and tried to get it right. So when your grown child walks away from your values—or your faith—why does it feel like your failure? Author Jim Burns tackles parent guilt, the endless “if onlys,” and the urge to fix what you can't control. Join Dave and Ann Wilson on FamilyLife Today for a conversation about loving adult kids when their choices break your heart.

Show Notes and Resources

• Jim Burns' book, When Your Adult Child Strays: Trading Heartache for Hope.
• Jim Burns' book, Doing Life with Your Adult Children: Keep Your Mouth Shut and the Welcome Mat Out.

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