Tomorrow starts a new year… Can you believe it?? I’m the type who sets really lofty goals, only to be disappointed when I don’t meet them (or I quit) within the first few weeks. For 2013, I’m trying to set reachable goals, but challenge myself at the same time. One of my goals is to read the books on my shelf that I’ve either not finished or haven’t even cracked open. I love buying a new book, but I’m terrible about making time to sit down and read. I think one way that I’ll go about this in the coming weeks and months is to intentionally put time on my calendar to read. I talked to a leader last week who reads from 9-10pm every night, and I think that’s a great idea! Another one of my goals is to read through my Bible chronologically, which is something I’ve never done. My other goals are related to ministry, health, relationships, and a variety of other things.
One passage that my dad always challenged me and my brothers with is Colossians 3:23, which says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men.” This is a passage that I remind myself of so often. At the end of the day, we do everything to bring honor and glory to God. It should be the heartbeat of our lives and ministries, and our goals should be rooted in this truth. No matter what kind of goal you set, whether it be in your role as a ministry leader, wife, mom, mentor, or friend, do it for the glory of God!
This is a verse that I want to keep in front of me as I chase after my goals:
“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
What are some goals you’re setting in your personal life and ministry for 2013? What measures are you putting in place to see how you’re doing with your goals?
Mary Margaret Collingsworth is an Event Project Coordinator on the Church Education Ministry team at Lifeway. She specifically coordinates any training events for women’s ministry leaders like YOU Lead and the Women’s Ministry Forum. In her spare time, she writes for Story of My Life – her personal blog.
