Setting Goals in the New Year!

Happy New Year! It's a time of reflection, a time to look back on the past year and take stock of what we have accomplished, as well as set goals for the coming year. As Christians, we are called to look ahead with hope and plan for our future in accordance with God's will. In Proverbs 16:3, it says, "Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established." The key is to commit our work and plans to God first so that our goals will be established in His will.

When setting goals for the new year, it is important to remember that even though we can trust in God’s guidance while making plans, they must also be realistic and achievable. In Isaiah 40:31, it says “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” This verse reminds us that we can rely on God’s strength when pursuing our goals but that we should also strive for reasonable objectives at a pace which we can maintain without becoming exhausted or discouraged.

Another aspect of goal-setting from a Christian perspective is considering how our goals help us grow closer to God and bring Him glory. In Colossians 3:23 it says “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;” Our intentions should always reflect an attitude of service towards God by doing our best work for His sake rather than just working towards selfish ambitions.

Finally, when setting goals in the New Year make sure you allow yourself grace when things don't go according to plan or you fall short of your expectations. We are only human after all! As Galatians 6:9 tells us “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap if we faint not.” Just keep pressing forward in faith knowing that if you stay committed your efforts will bear fruit in due time!

As Christians entering into this new year let us have faith that with God's guidance any goal set before us can be achieved!