John Stanko

TOPIC: Goals and Objectives    

"He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me" - Colossians 1:28-29.

Paul had an end in mind when he taught. He wasn't just teaching to fill time but wanted to produce something in his hearers, and worked toward that end. You should do the same with your goals. Be clear as to what you want to achieve, which doesn't only have to be external results (i.e., I will have $1,000 saved in 45 days). The desired end can also be internal growth, for both you and those around you (i.e., my students will have a greater hunger and appreciation for reading poetry when we finish this course). Do your goals have specific end results? Are you clear as to what you want to accomplish? Have you put them into words that are graphic and inspiring? Can you see what it is you are trying to reach through your finished goals?

Lord, I am sometimes afraid to be specific when I set goals for fear that I may not be able to accomplish them. Yet I know if I am not clear where I am going, any road will do. I ask you to help me both focus and clarify the end results You put in my heart to achieve, and then also to spell them out clearly, with no ambivalence or fear.