GOD + GOALS: How To Set Goals As A ChristianSample

DAY 2: How do you know if a goal is from God or from yourself?

You're starting to see it: without goals, you might wander around aimlessly in life. God-led goals are good. But! How do you know if they’re God-led and not from yourself? How can you tell the difference? You're afraid you'll choose the wrong goals!

Do you know what's so wonderful about God? A lot of things, but namely, He wants to do this life right alongside you. When you feel lost in your goals and purpose, or in choosing between one path or another, He wants you to ask Him for help—and he loves giving it! James tells us, 'If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him" (James 1:5 ESV). 

Don't know whether your plans are good to goal?

Do a little check-in:

• Open the Word and look for specific scriptures or stories in the Bible that confirm the goal you have in mind. Is your goal Biblically-sound? Are there specific scriptures that confirm it? 'All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness' (2 Timothy 3:16 ESV).
• Ask Him! Pray and ask for God to show you the way He wants you to go. 'I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you' (Psalm 32:8 ESV).
• Ask trusted friends or God-loving mentors for guidance. 'Without counsel, plans fail, but with many advisers, they succeed' (Proverbs 15:22 ESV).

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all magic formula for uncovering goals except God Himself. If the answers still don't feel clear, don't give up! This might be part of the process He wants you to go through. In the wait, we are refined and readied for what's next. Wait on His wisdom, and He will give it to you in His perfect timing!

Pray with me: Lord, thank you for your Word! I’m so grateful for your clear guidance and wisdom. Please help me to discern the difference between goals and plans that are born out of my love for you versus all the rest. Help me to know Your voice, trust in Your leading, and seek You above all else. In Jesus’ name. Amen!