Count the Cost: Planning with Faith (Revisit) | Ep. 38

Making a plan can be an act of faithful stewardship. But planning can also become another way of putting pressure on ourselves, trying to change everything at once, or attempting to control an outcome we were never meant to control. 

In this episode, Nino and Maria reflect on Jesus’ words in Luke 14:28 about counting the cost before beginning. They explore the difference between simply setting a goal and honestly considering what that goal will require, including whether the changes we’re planning are realistic enough to become part of our lives.  

Maria shares how an ambitious plan to change nearly everything in her life ultimately taught her something deeper: sometimes the goals we adopt aren’t really ours at all. They may come from what the world says we should be doing rather than what God is actually asking of us. Instead of beginning with What should I change?, she has learned to ask, Lord, what do You want me to change? How do I align my will with Yours? 

The conversation moves beyond money into the stewardship of time, health, work, family, habits, and even rest. Planning matters, but so does recognizing what something will cost—and whether that cost reflects the priorities God has placed in our lives.  

Weekly Challenge: Choose one simple rhythm in prayer, rest, or work that you can begin establishing this week. Keep it small, realistic, and sustainable. Faithful change doesn’t have to begin dramatically.  

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Hosted by: Nino Villa and Maria Casillas