A new year has arrived. How do those words make you feel? If you’re like me, you’re intimidated by the thought of figuring out your goals. Or maybe instead of feeling paralyzed, you’re energized at the prospect of what’s in store. You’ve put pen to paper and laid out a roadmap of what you’d like to do.
No matter where you land on the “New Year Excitement Scale,” I want you to know that God is walking beside you and anything is possible.
Here are some reminders from the Bible that will help you conquer your goals this year…
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. – Ephesians 2:10 nlt
What this verse tells me: Setting and conquering my goals is a way to fulfill the purpose God created me for long ago. I can’t lose sight of the fact that I’m His masterpiece. As I ponder what I want to achieve this year, it’s an opportunity to seek out His plans and let His handiwork shine.
We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. – Psalm 33:20 niv
What this verse tells me: A new year is an opportunity to place my hope in the Lord. As I work toward my goals, He will equip me to wait when the results don’t come as quick as I want. No matter what happens, I can move forward with confidence because He will help and protect me.
For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:13 nlt
What this verse tells me: No goal is out of the bounds of what God can do through me. He wants me to dream big and let His strength carry me to the finish line.
The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. – Romans 8:11 nlt
What this verse tells me: The strength God gives me is supernatural. If it could raise Jesus from the dead, it’s powerful enough to raise the dead places inside of me. I don’t have limited access to His power. It’s living inside of me right now as I work toward my goals.
You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. – Galatians 5:7-8 niv
What these verses tell me: People and things will threaten my progress. Distractions will come. Persuasive arguments (from myself or others) will make me question my ability to succeed. But none of those things are from God. To run a good race, I have to keep my eyes, heart, and mind on the One who calls me.
Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. – Proverbs 3:6 msg
What this verse tells me: When I’m tempted to give up on my goals, it’s time to tune out the world and tune in to God. The voices of this world will send me off course. They’ll pull and tug, stealing my attention. But God’s voice can be trusted. If I want to succeed in living out His purpose for me, I have to listen to Him every step of the way.
Looking for more help to reach your goals? My Daily Devotion Sheet and Prayer Roadmap guides you through recording your personal and spiritual progress each day. Check it out here.
