This Time I Will: Biblical Principles for Effective Goal-SettingShembull

It All Starts With A Plan

Principle # 3: Deal With The Reality

For years, I have been fascinated by the story of Nehemiah. Besides the creation account in Genesis, his story is one of my favorite strategic planning illustrations. His motivation, conviction, the pre-assessment process, and the precision of his plans are laid out plainly for us to see. As someone who deems herself a strategic planning enthusiast, I believe there is a lot to learn from him.

Over the years, I have learned that part of good goal setting is understanding that without the appropriate resources for execution, a plan is as good as null. Yes, the plan itself is important, and so is a posture of confidence. However, equally important are the resources. Nehemiah teaches us a great lesson on the synergy between all three.

In the book of Nehemiah, his task is to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. In Chapter 1, he is compelled to action but overwhelmed by the weight of the task – the capacity it will require the resources to pull it off, and the favor and permission he will need from his employer.

In Nehemiah 2:11-16, as he is processing what is required of him, he does something that not many of us do before execution – he pauses. He quietly and privately creates a plan that starts with a thorough assessment of the needs.

I will be the first to admit that there are many goals I have blindly and emotionally pursued. There was the time I wanted to lose 20lbs six weeks before my birthday. Any healthcare professional can attest that this is not a reasonable goal.

There was also the time I looked at my finances and decided I wanted to meet an ambitious goal. Again, noble, but it was unrealistic for my circumstances. I had disregarded my spending behaviors, access to resources, and the underlying challenges that went unaddressed.

With any goal, it is easy to envision the result, but that often means skipping the reality of what is in front of us. Nehemiah teaches us that the goal is only as good as the plan, the plan is only as good as the research, and the research is only as good as a realistic and reasonable understanding of the needs. For effective goal setting, when in doubt, start with your needs.

Reflection Question:

1. In Nehemiah 2:12, he says, "...I had not told anyone what my God had put in my heart to do for Jerusalem." (NIV)

When it comes to my goals, who do I talk to? Could talking too much be sabotaging my results?