As I've stated in these messages for the past few years, I no longer make New Year's resolutions . . . I set goals for myself for the coming year.  This year is no different as far as having goals.  However, I decided to think about what I would like to accomplish now, rather than wait until December 31.  It might be a good thing for all of us to do the same.

While thinking about this process, a couple things came to my mind.  One very important thing is that we first need to write our goals ("...write the vision and make it plain..." Habakkuk 2:2) and make them reasonable.  Don't put anything on your list that you know you are truly not going to do.  Don't list the purchase of a home if you are truly not in a position to do that just yet.  Rather, you could put something like "attend a home buying seminar" or "take classes to get out of debt."  [Side note: For those who are interested in this, I know a couple of people who are able to assist in that area.]

Another thing: At the hospital where I volunteer, there is a binder at the desk which contains a section all volunteers are required to read prior to each shift.  It contains information which is important to performing our duties.  This information may change from one day to the next.  In the same manner, I think it is important that we not only keep our goals where we can see them each day, but we should work on some aspect of those goals on a daily basis.  If we don't do that, it becomes extremely easy for the enemy to enter through an opening and cause distractions to get us off the course God has prepared.  Close up the gaps by staying committed to the goal every day.

There has been one repeating goal on my list for the past couple of years that has not been accomplished.  Why?  I allowed doubt to creep in and thoughts of what was not possible rather than allowing God to show me how to do it with the resources I have available to me.  

When we are on track towards those things that God has for us, the enemy will attempt to cause us to lose focus and get us sidetracked.  Unfortunately, that's exactly what happened to me.  This morning, the Holy Spirit is reminding me that what God has for me is for me and that goal I've had is still something God wants for me.  It's also still something He will help me achieve . . . IF I TRUST HIM.  

My pastor says we have to stop trying to operate independently and learn to be more dependent on God.  Make a move to ask God to help you not only write your goals for 2011, but also see the manifestation of them within the season He's provided.  Then, depend on Him to help you move toward your goals.

© 2010 Francina Johnson-Jamison

What are your goals for 2011? Share them with us so that we might agree with you in prayer.

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