Hello, Altered Stories Family,
As we stand on the threshold of another year, it’s an opportune time to reflect, reassess, and realign our lives with the divine guidance that God provides. For Christians, this means setting goals not just for personal growth or achievement but in alignment with God’s broader plan for our lives.
Here’s how you can embark on this journey in 2025:
1. Seek God’s Guidance Through Prayer
Before you even begin to draft your goals, spend time in prayer. Ask God to reveal His will for your life. Prayer isn’t just about asking; it’s about listening. You might find clarity in silent meditation or through the scriptures.
Example: “Lord, guide me in setting goals that reflect Your will. Help me discern what truly matters in my journey with You.”
2. Study the Scriptures
The Bible is rich with guidance for life’s direction. Look for verses that speak to stewardship, purpose, and service. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Use this wisdom to frame your goals.
Example: Study passages like Jeremiah 29:11, which speaks of plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you hope and a future.
3. Set Spiritual Goals First
Prioritize spiritual growth. This could mean committing to daily Bible reading, joining a Bible study group, or dedicating time for personal prayer and meditation. Spiritual goals should underpin all other areas of your life, providing a foundation for everything you do.
Example: Aim to read through the entire Bible in a year or commit to a weekly fast.
4. Align Personal Goals with Kingdom Values
Consider how your personal aspirations – be it career, education, family, or health – can reflect Christian values like love, integrity, stewardship, and service.
Example: If you aim for career advancement, think about how your job can be a ministry, serving others or providing for your family in a way that honors God.
5. Use SMART Goals in a Spiritual Context
SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) can be adapted for spiritual growth:
Specific: “I will volunteer at my church’s soup kitchen every Saturday.”
Measurable: “I will memorize one new Bible verse each week.”
Achievable: Set goals that challenge you but are attainable with God’s help.
Relevant: Ensure goals are pertinent to your spiritual journey.
Time-bound: “By Easter, I will have led one person to Christ.”
6. Ask God for Direction in Decisions
A pivotal part of setting goals with God involves asking for discernment on what to embrace or reject in your life. Pray for wisdom to know what opportunities to say ‘yes’ to, which commitments to say ‘no’ to, what habits or activities to continue, and what to discontinue. This prayerful discernment helps align your life more closely with God’s intentions, freeing you from the burdens of unnecessary pursuits while encouraging growth in areas blessed by His guidance.
Example: “Lord, show me what to welcome into my life this year, what to let go of what to keep nurturing, and what to end, so that my life might truly reflect Your love and purpose.”
7. Accountability and Community
Share your goals with a trusted friend, mentor, or a small group at church. Accountability can be a powerful motivator and guide.
Example: Join or create a goal-setting group where members support each other in prayer and practical steps.
8. Regular Reflection and Adjustment
Goals aren’t set in stone; they should be living, breathing aspirations that can change as you grow in your faith. Regularly reflect on your progress, giving thanks for what has been achieved and adjusting where necessary.
Example: Monthly check-ins with yourself or your accountability partner to review, celebrate, and perhaps redirect your goals.
As we step into 2025, let’s do so with hearts open to God’s leading. Remember, setting goals with God’s plan in mind isn’t just about personal success; it’s about participating in God’s work here on earth. May your New Year be marked by spiritual growth, divine purpose, and the joy of walking closely with Christ.
Happy New Year! May your journey this year be blessed as you set your sights on God’s eternal plan.
God bless you and yours,
Teresa