As we keep God in mind while setting our goals, here are some additional considerations to keep in mind:
Rule #1: Realize that as a human being, your power is limited. There are going to be things that you will have no control over. Your goals should reflect what you are capable of doing and controlling. That would be your efforts, actions, attitude, and behavior.
Rule #2: Balance yourself so you are working on a manageable number of goals at a time.
Rule #3: Remember that your short-term goals should show progression over time toward your long-term goals.
Remember to: review your goals quarterly to sharpen and refine them.
Rule #4: Guard your heart with all diligence (see Proverbs 4:23). Unless a person is critical to helping you accomplish your goals, be discreet. The negative talk from those close to you may quickly deceive you, deter you, tear you down, or keep you from achieving your goals. Exception: when setting family goals—especially financial goals—involve your spouse.
Rule #5: If you are single, make sure the person you intend to marry has goals and values that align themselves with your God-given goals and values. To cross paths in certain areas is not enough. Identify what you value in a relationship, what you expect out of a relationship, and how the union of your goals will bring glory to God. The more incongruent your goals are with your spouse or future spouse, the more difficult it will be for you to reach your God-given goals, eventually leading to marital conflict. This same rule can also be applied to any business union or partnership.
Rule #6: Embrace the fact that it is honorable to pay dues. In Proverbs 31, we see a goal-oriented woman; we are told: “She stretches out her hands to the distaff, And her hand holds the spindle” (v. 19). Here is a woman who has set her sights on what she needs and wants to accomplish and dedicates time to accomplishing it (spinning thread). Despite how long, arduous, and monotonous the task may be, she exhibits patience and long-suffering in accomplishing her task. The lesson that we can learn from this godly woman is that success does not come overnight but with patience, persistence, perseverance, and plain old hard work.
Rule #7: Lastly, be grateful to God for the skills and abilities He has blessed you with. If you have failed at achieving a goal, use that failure as an opportunity to learn from your mistakes and strengthen your faith in God. Then, prayerfully re-examine why that goal wasn’t achievable and focus on new ways and ideas to attain it..
Read: Setting Goals with God in Mind, Part 1
Read: Setting Goals with God in Mind (Final Thoughts), Part 3
References:
Miller, Sandra. Balancing Blessings and Obtaining Order for Women: 11 Steps to: Managing Your Possessions, Organizing Your Resources, and Walking in the Spirit of God. 1st ed., ByB e-Publishers, 2008. pp 96-100.
