Redefining Success: From Goals to God’s Glory

What does it mean to be successful?

For most of our lives, we’ve been taught that success is about achievements, accolades, and upward progress – getting the degree, securing the dream job, making a name for ourselves. Even in ministry, success is often measured by numbers: How many people were saved? How many lives were changed? How big is your impact?

But what if success isn’t about what we accomplish at all?

What if real success is simply obedience to God’s call, regardless of the outcome?

The World Race is a journey that reshapes the way Racers view success. It breaks down performance-driven mindsets and replaces them with a Kingdom perspective – one that prioritizes faithfulness over results, surrender over striving, and God’s glory over personal gain.

The Shift from Goals to Glory

Success in the world is about doing more—accomplishing, striving, proving. Success in the Kingdom is about being more—being present with God, being available for His plans, being faithful to what He’s asking.

One Racer shared her turning point:
“I went into the World Race thinking that if I didn’t lead someone to Christ, I had failed. If I didn’t have some ‘huge’ moment, then what was the point? But over time, God showed me that success isn’t measured in moments – it’s measured in obedience. The real question is, ‘Did I follow where He led me today?’”

That shift changes everything. Instead of stressing about impact, Racers learn to ask:

1. Did I listen to God’s voice today?
2. Did I love the people in front of me?
3. Did I say yes, even when it was uncomfortable?

That is what Kingdom success looks like.

Faithfulness Over Perfection

When Jesus called the disciples, He didn’t lay out a five-year plan. He simply said:

“Come, follow me.” (Matthew 4:19)

He didn’t ask for a résumé. He didn’t require them to be qualified. He didn’t even tell them where they were going.

He just asked for their yes.

Success in the Kingdom isn’t about being the best or knowing everything. It’s about being faithful with what God has given you.

Maybe it’s praying for one person instead of reaching thousands.
Maybe it’s serving in hidden places where no one sees your work.
Maybe it’s being still and listening when everything in you wants to strive.

Obedience is enough. God does the rest.

What Happens After the World Race? A New Kind of Success
So what happens when the World Race ends? When the adventure is over, and you’re standing at the crossroads, wondering what’s next? That’s where CGA – the Center for Global Action – comes in.

Many Racers return home with a new perspective on success but struggle with how to live it out. CGA is designed to bridge that gap. It’s a semester-long program where World Race alumni can take the lessons they’ve learned on the field and apply them to real-life – developing a deeper relationship with God, stepping into their calling, and equipping themselves for lifelong Kingdom impact.

CGA isn’t about climbing a ladder – it’s about building a foundation.

It’s a space where alumni:

• Deepen their understanding of God – exploring biblical foundations, theology, and identity in Christ.
•  Heal and grow personally – identifying roadblocks like fear, doubt, and striving.
• Develop practical leadership skills – learning how to lead others in ministry, missions, and everyday life.
• Activate their calling – discovering gifts, passions, and God’s purpose for their next season.

Because true success isn’t found in achieving more. It’s found in knowing God, knowing yourself, and knowing the Kingdom.

Step Into a New Definition of Success
If you’ve been on the World Race and are asking, “What’s next?” – this is your invitation.

Next CGA Opportunity:
August 10 – December 16, 2025
Gainesville, GA
$6,500

CGA is open to alumni of Semesters, Gap Year, or the 11n11 World Race who want to continue their journey of growth, leadership, and Kingdom living.

Success isn’t about where you go next—it’s about who you become in the process.

Learn more about CGA and apply today!

What if the greatest thing you could do with your life is simply say yes?