goal : the object of a person’s ambition or effort; an aim or desired result

Have you set goals for 2009?

A few years ago, a friend of mine shared with me how she goes about setting goals for the new year, and I have been following her example for the past three years.

Basically, I start by praying for God to show me what areas of my life are not quite right, not submitted to Him. Usually they are character qualities, but they could also be habits. Then as it becomes clear what God wants to change in me, I write the goals down.

This year, one of my goals is to read through the Bible, reading a little from the old testament and a little from the new testament each day. It averages out to 3-5 chapters a day. Very do-able, as long as I don’t get too far behind.  Here is the plan if you’re interested.

The other two goals deal with character traits that just seem to escape me: humility and temperance of speech. In order to learn what God says about each of these, I have two notebooks in which I’ll to write down verses that deal with the traits as I come across them in my Bible reading.

Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. (Romans 12:2)

Happy goal-setting!