When I started running my very first goal was to run a marathon. In my first attempt I passed out on the 24th mile, it was hard and disappointing. I’ve been able to complete two since that first race; however, the goal has changed to qualify for Boston. I’ve tried to pick up my pace, I’ve tried to improve my strength; however, no matter how hard I try it seems like a goal I’ll never achieve.
There will be goals that you have that are big and at times will even seem impossible. Maybe it’s growing your ministry to a ridiculous size. Maybe you dream of writing a book or speaking at a big ticket conference. Maybe they are realistic; however, just seem too daunting. To set big goals, to follow your dreams you need to make sure you:
- Let Go Of Your Pride: You are filled with desires and dreams for your student ministry. Maybe it’s a building, growing your numbers to a certain size or speaking at a conference. It’s good and healthy to have those desires; however, remember they might not be what God has desired for you. Just as you tell your students, be sure to embrace God’s plan for you. In the end His goals are greater for you.
- Embrace Patience: Timing is everything. You might want the big booming youth ministry; however, to have that within your first year of ministry isn’t likely. Your life is a series of seasons. Again God has a plan for you in each of these seasons, take the time to listen to Him, plan and prepare for each transition.
- Seek Brutal Truth: You won’t always see the realities of your goals. To help you gain an honest perspective on progress be sure to surround yourself with people who will tell you when to move forward and when to move on. The right people are the ones you trust to be honest and you know you will listen to despite the harshness of their truth.
- Exercise Persistence: To complete a marathon you just need to move one foot in front of the other over and over again. To achieve certain goals means persistence and consistency. To build that team of ministers you need to persistently ask. To grow your numbers you need to consistently invite teens. To get a point across you need to repeat, repeat and repeat.
There will be goals that you desire that you will never achieve; however, that’s okay. It’s okay to dream big, even if it never happens. What you need to discover is whether you are striving for the right goals. That means spending time with God, listening to others and always looking to move forward.
How do you work towards your goals?