GOD + GOALS: How To Set Goals As A ChristianSample

DAY 1:  Is it okay to set goals as a Christian?

You want to follow God AND achieve goals with purpose. But you're worried that setting goals will lead you away from God’s plans for you. So, you're wondering, "Is it okay to set goals as a Christian? What does God's Word say about how to do this and stay in line with His will?" God has a lot to say about goals, intentional planning, and stewarding well what we've been given. 

The short answer: goals are good! Even Jesus had goals. God desires for us to live on purpose, not by accident. The fact that you're asking and seeking His will means you want to do this life well. His Word is about to illuminate for you how to set the right goals and stay motivated to achieve them. 

But, don’t expect to find a checklist or a quick-fix formula for goal setting in the Bible. If it were that easy, we might read the list, check it off, and never talk to God about our plans. It's not about following rules, it's about a relationship with the One who created you with unique gifts and talents to use, God Himself. 

The alternative to setting good goals? Wandering around aimlessly, letting life happen to you. Think about it. Did any of the key figures in the Bible just sit around doing nothing? Sure, they had their missteps, but Moses, David, Solomon, Esther, Ruth, John, Paul, and Jesus Himself had goals, and they got after them with God’s strength and wisdom. You're about to do the same, one small step and leap of faith at a time.

Pray with me: Lord, I want to follow You, setting goals that align with your will for my life. Thank you for creating me with unique gifts and talents to use for Your greater purpose. I want to go where you're going. Please show me how to set goals the way you desire. I need your wisdom on planning and purpose so I can steward what you've given me—my time, my money, my work, my relationships, my health—right where I am. Open my eyes to Your truth and help it move from my head to my heart to my hands. In Jesus' name. Amen!