Money
When money becomes the place we look for security or peace, it can quietly take over our trust. This page explores how finances can shape the heart — and how Jesus offers freedom from fear and anxiety.
SINS OF IDOLATRY
Status & Success
When our sense of worth becomes tied to what we achieve or how others see us, we can unknowingly chase status and success in ways that leave us empty and exhausted. You may feel pressure to perform, to be admired, or to avoid failure at all costs — and this can shape your decisions, relationships, and daily rhythm. What begins as healthy ambition can turn into a relentless pursuit of recognition that never truly satisfies.
Spiritually, this pursuit can pull your heart in different directions. Instead of finding your identity in who God says you are, you begin to measure your value against milestones, praise, and approval from the world around you. That pressure chips away at peace and joy, leaving you anxious or discouraged when expectations aren’t met. But God offers a different source of worth — not based on what you accomplish, but on who you are in Christ.
And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
— Matthew 23:12
For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
— Galatians 1:10
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
— Philippians 2:3
TURN TOWARD JESUS
Explore Practices That Shape the Heart
Turning toward Jesus means turning away from the sin you’re entangled in—and choosing practices that reshape your heart over time. Explore studying the Bible, prayer, fasting, and forgiveness to take a clear next step toward repentance, freedom, and deeper fellowship with Him.
GET HOPE & HELP
Resources for Dealing With Status & Success
Podcast
Defining Stress & Success
A thoughtful conversation on how success and recognition quietly shape identity and compete with surrender and faithfulness.
Article
How Do I Put Away My Desire for Praise?
A pastoral interview guiding listeners to exchange the desire for human praise with a deeper delight in God’s approval and…
NEXT STEPS
If you’ve ever felt defined by success, measured yourself by applause, or found your hope in what you accomplish rather than who God is, you’re not alone. These next steps are designed to help you reorient your heart toward Jesus and discover lasting worth beyond achievement.
NEED HELP?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to begin, we’d love to walk with you.
Fill out the form below and a trusted member of our team will reach out to listen, pray, and help you take a wise next step.
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Comfort, Security & Control
Explores the desire to stay comfortable, safe, and in control — and how surrendering those instincts to God leads to deeper peace and trust.
Sins of the Tongue
Words can wound or heal, and many struggle with speech that harms relationships. Jesus invites you into freedom as He renews your heart and speech through repentance and discipleship.
AN INVITATION TO JOIN US AT SONRISE
At Sonrise Church, we believe real life change happens when people encounter Jesus, walk in truth, and grow together in community. You are welcome here—no matter your past, your struggles, or where you’re starting from. Join us this Sunday to take your next step toward freedom and formation with us. Jesus changes everything.
Sonrise Church
Service Times:
- Sunday : 9:00 AM (1st Service)
- Sunday : 10:40 AM (2nd Service)
At Sonrise Church in Santee, CA, we know that the pressure to achieve and be admired is real — whether in work, relationships, or social standing. In East County San Diego, many wrestle quietly with comparing themselves to others or defining their identity by career milestones and accomplishments. Sonrise Church offers a place where honest questions about status, success, and meaning are welcomed with compassion and rooted in Scripture.
In Santee, El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lakeside, our community talks openly about the struggle to find approval and peace in a performance-driven culture. Jesus invites you to find your value in Him — not in applause or accomplishment — and here you’ll find practical teaching, prayer support, and real-life discipleship to help you walk that out. If you’re longing for purpose beyond performance, Sonrise Church in East County is a place to take those next steps with others who are walking the same journey.
Come discover how the gospel reshapes your heart’s desires and gives peace that doesn’t depend on what you achieve.