Are You Succeeding at the Wrong Things?
Pastor Lee Cummings
April 26, 2026 Message Recap
It’s possible to succeed at the wrong things.
You can build a life full of achievement, recognition, and financial success—and still miss what actually matters in the long run. Because when your life ends, the impact of it doesn’t.
So the question is worth asking: What will you leave behind?
Near the end of his life, the apostle Paul didn’t point to his accomplishments. Instead, he pointed to what had been passed on to others:
“You have followed my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, my faith…” (2 Timothy 3:10)
What mattered most wasn’t what he achieved—it was what he imparted.
Think of your life like aiming at a target.
Some targets are close and easy to hit, like stability, comfort, and short-term success. There’s nothing wrong with wanting these things, but if they’re the only things you aim for, they don’t last over time.
Other targets are farther away. They take more intention, more patience, and effort, like the kind of person you become, the impact you leave on others, and the values you pass down.
The farther away the target, the more intentional your life has to be.
Most of us naturally set life goals that will last during our time on earth, but the most meaningful part of our lives will last far beyond our time on earth.
Proverbs reads, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their grandchildren” (Proverbs 13:22)
That idea isn’t just about money. It’s about what you pass down—your values, your character, your example.
We see this in Timothy, whose faith didn’t start with him:
“Your sincere faith first lived in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice…” (2 Timothy 1:5)
His faith was shaped by generations before him that left a legacy. What one generation starts, the next one builds on.
Ask yourself:
What kind of person do I want to be remembered as?
What kind of impact do I want to have on people?
What do I want to leave behind in others?
Your life isn’t just about what you accomplish—it’s about who you influence.
The thing that we should fear most is not succeeding in life. It's actually succeeding at the wrong things.
Define your aim
Decide what you want your life to produce—not just for you, but for others.
Think long-term
Choose what matters in the long run over what feels easiest right now.
Pass on what matters
Your values, your integrity, your way of treating people.
Invest in people
Impact doesn’t travel through achievements—it travels through relationships.
If you want to be a legacy builder, you have to start on the last day of your life and work your way backward, envisioning how you will leave your mark.
Scripture References
Tap to watch the sermon!
About Radiant Church
Founded in 1996, Radiant Church has grown into a multi-location church committed to biblical teaching, discipleship, and mission.
At Radiant Church, there is an invitation to grow in your spiritual journey, build meaningful community, and truly get connected. We are passionate about helping people grow in faith, encounter the presence of God, and become part of a church grounded in Spirit and truth.