2016 – A Time to Set Goals

by Sandy Kirby Quandt

Five days into 2016. A brand new year. Another year bursting with potential, opportunities, and goals. Twelve months stretch before us like a road just waiting for us to set and accomplish those goals we’ve dreamed of accomplishing. Complete those projects we’ve dreamed of completing. Conquer those mountains we’ve dreamed of conquering.

But how many times have we started strong with our eye on the target determined this is courtesy pixabythe year we hit the mark and see those dreams and goals come to life, only to face the target and think, I can’t do this. It’s too difficult. What if I fail? and give up?

My hand’s raised, that’s for sure. Too often I have a dream. A goal. Something I want to accomplish, but I allow fear or insecurity to cause me to back off, or at the least, work at it halfheartedly.

It’s taken me awhile, but one thing I realize is when I become overwhelmed and allow fear to factor into obtaining my goal, I set myself up to fail.

Yep.

I’m afraid I won’t do a good enough job, even though, honestly, I probably would, and I sabotage my efforts.

Crazy. I know.

When King David commissioned his son, Solomon, to build the Temple of the LORD, he encouraged Solomon not to be overwhelmed by the task, but to set his sights on achieving the goal. Which indeed was daunting, when you stop and think about it. The Israelites had never built anything so grand before. This was to be the house of Yahweh.

What if Solomon messed it up?

David reminded his son the LORD would be with Solomon until the work was complete.

And He was.

Are there things you believe God has called you to complete for Him, but you’re afraid you can’t do them? You don’t have what it takes? You might miss the mark and fail? The goal is too far out of reach?

Something I’m learning is God doesn’t call the equipped. God equips the called.

courtesy pixabayIf God wants us to accomplish something for Him, He’ll equip us to do it. All we have to do is be brave. Be strong and do the work.

God will be right there with us, helping until the work is completed and we hit the mark.

As we turn the calendar pages this year, let’s commit to do the work, buckle down, not give up, hit the mark, achieve our goals and git ‘er done.

David also said to his son Solomon, “Be strong and brave, and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, because the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or leave you until all the work for the Temple of the LORD is finished.” 1 Chronicles 28:20 (NCV)

I wish you well.

Sandy

Sandy Kirby Quandt

Sandy Kirby Quandt is a follower of Jesus with a passion for history and travel. Passions that often weave their way into her stories and articles. She writes articles, devotions, and stories for adult and children publications. She is a regular contributor to Guideposts devotional books, as well as a conference speaker. Sandy has won multiple awards for her writing, including several years in the Young Adult category of the Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition. However, her greatest honor came when she received the Right Stuff Award at Space Camp for Educators. Looking for words of encouragement or gluten-free recipes? Then check out her blog at https://sandykirbyquandt.com

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