Stepping Stones: Are You Goal Oriented, Too?

Transformational Tip
We all like goals. Happiness, satisfaction, pay the bills on time, play with the kids after work, get my work done so I can watch the ballgame, help people. Some are simple, some are complex. Looking back on my life, a lot of my goals didn't come out of a well thought out process, looking at the whole picture. They were usually me oriented and "fixed" one problem, but led to other problems. The danger is once I set a goal I almost become single-minded to achieve it. I head off going about it "my way." Evaluating my life to determine a healthy goal has to be the starting point, for my pursuit to be successful.
Before going after your next goal (or maybe you are in the midst of trying for a goal) talk with God about it directly through prayer and listening(as He speaks to your spirit, through friends and family, and through circumstances). Ask for God's discernment to help you decide if that goal is according to His will... for you... right now. If the answer is yes, then you pursue that goal with even more confidence. When that goal is reached; thank God for his help and guidance. Rejoice in what He has accomplished in you.

Prayer
Dear Father,
Pursuing goals comes so naturally to me, it's almost like second nature. I confess that when a goal grabs my attention, my instinct is to "go for it" without talking it over with you. I realize now that many of my goals are so superficial and have nothing to do with pleasing You or doing Your work. I know Lord that when I take time to discuss matters with You my life becomes so much more satisfying. I pray Lord that You help me develop goals that are according to Your will...that You become my captain in all the tasks to accomplish the goal... and grow my humility to accept your direction, will, and timing. I pray that You shine the light of Your presence on all my goals. I pray in the name of Jesus - AMEN!

The Truth
I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13
Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.
Proverbs 19:21
Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness.
Psalm 89:15-16