“Do you not know that all the runners run in a race, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.” 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Setting goals is essential to success in any area of life. Whether you’re aiming to advance your career, develop new skills, or improve your personal life, having clear and well-defined goals can help you stay motivated and on track. Read 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. However, it’s important to remember that not all goals are created equal. To be effective, there are three major characteristics that your goals should possess: clarity, realism, and impactfulness.
Firstly, clarity is key when setting goals. In the book Habakkuk 2:2, we see a great example of how having clear goals can lead to success. The verse says, “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.” In order words, your objectives should be written, specific, and easy to understand so that you know exactly what you’re working towards. This means breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps that can be easily tracked and measured over time. By doing this, you’ll be able to stay focused on the end result while also celebrating small wins along the way.
Proverbs 29:18 says, “Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.”
Secondly, your goals should be realistic. While it’s important to dream big and aim high, ensuring our goals are realistic is equally important. Setting unrealistic goals can lead to disappointment, frustration, and ultimately giving up on them entirely. As the bible verse in Proverbs 13:12 says, “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.” It’s better to set smaller, achievable goals that will give us a sense of progress and accomplishment along the way. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t challenge ourselves or strive for greatness; rather, we should be mindful of what is feasible given our current circumstances.
Lastly, we must set an Impactful goal. Impactful goals are those that not only benefit us but also have a positive impact on others and the world around us. These goals give us direction and purpose in life, helping us to make a difference, leave our mark on the world, and glorify God. In 2 Corinthians 5:9, Paul writes, “So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.” In order words, it is important to set impactful goals that align with God’s plan for our lives because it will leave a lasting legacy as Christ did. Amen. John 4:34 says, “Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work.” Amen.
Prayer:
1. Oh Lord, thank you for your great plan before I was born.
2. Holy Spirit, I need your direction and guidance to help me fulfill God’s purpose in Jesus’ name. Amen.
