The One Verse That Changed How I View Success
Discover how Jeremiah 29:11 redefined success and brought clarity to my purpose.
The Shift That Changed Everything
For years, I measured my success by worldly standards—titles, accomplishments, appearances. But no matter how much I achieved, it never felt like enough. The harder I worked, the emptier I felt, and the more disconnected I became from my purpose and identity—the very core of who I am. I had lost myself. Then, I stumbled upon a verse that changed everything. It wasn't just a reminder—it was a complete redefinition of what success truly meant.
The Struggle with Misaligned Success
I'll never forget the moment I hit "success burnout." On paper, my life looked perfect. I was running my business, competing in fitness competitions, and checking off every goal society told me would make me feel fulfilled. Yet, I was restless, anxious, and constantly chasing the next thing, hoping it would finally make me feel whole.
One night, exhausted and overwhelmed, I opened my Bible to Jeremiah 29:11:
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
I stopped in my tracks. This verse spoke to a part of me I hadn't realized was starving: my trust in God's purpose over my own. I had been striving for control, believing my worth was tied to my accomplishments. But this verse reminded me: God's definition of success is so much deeper, richer, and more fulfilling than anything I could chase on my own.
Redefining Success God's Way
Here's what Jeremiah 29:11 taught me about true success:
Success Is Rooted in Trust
God's plan for you is bigger and better than anything you can imagine. Trusting His purpose doesn't mean giving up on your goals—it means aligning them with His will.Success Is Holistic, Not Hustle-Centered
Prosperity and abundance, in God's eyes, aren't about success in terms of financial gain or external accolades. It's about thriving and abiding in your faith, relationships, and purpose.Success Is About the Journey, Not the Destination
God's promise of hope and a future reminds us that success isn't about a single achievement. It's about walking daily in faith, trusting that each step is part of His greater plan.
This verse gave me permission to slow down, realign, and stop chasing validation from the world. It shifted my focus from what I could do to who I was becoming in Christ.
Align Your Goals with God's Plan
This week, I challenge you to reflect on your own definition of success. Here's how:
Pause and Pray
Take a moment to ask God to reveal His plans for your life. Be still and listen for His guidance.Reassess Your Goals
Write down your top three goals. Ask yourself: Do these align with my faith and purpose?Surrender Control
Choose one area of your life where you've been striving on your own strength. Give it to God and trust Him to lead.
For a deeper reflection, grab my Create Your Own Story® Journal and use it to process where God is calling you to realign.
Let's Reflect Together
What's one area of your life where you feel called to redefine success? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Let's create a community that encourages one another to trust God's plan and walk boldly in His purpose.
If this post spoke to your heart, share it with someone who might need the reminder that their worth and success are already secured in God's hands.
Resources to Help You Let Go
Book Recommendation: Dive deeper into this journey with my book, Chasing Perfection: A Journey to Healing, Fitness, and Self-Love—a guide for reclaiming your worth and purpose.
Free Resource: Download my 5 Steps to Break Free from the Hustle and Build a Life of Freedom & Impact to start redefining success on your terms.
Podcast Episode: Listen to The Confident Woman Podcast for more faith-fueled stories and actionable insights.
XO,
Rachel