The Word - May 10, 2012 - SETTING SPIRITUAL GOALS WITH ETERNAL VALUES #2

"Remember the things I have done in the past. For I alone am God! I am God, and there is none like me. Only I can tell the future before it even happens. Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish. I have said what I would do, and I will do it" (Isaiah 46:9-11b)

Certainly our Heavenly Father is the Great Planner! "I have purposed it. I will do it." There is nothing haphazard in the example given us by the Lord. Nevertheless, there are many who think God, having created us, then simply released His creation to whatever might happen, whether by "fate" or random choices. To do something like that would be inconceivable with a Supreme Intelligence who is the omniscient Designer.

What kind of spiritual goals should we have? His desire is for us to be conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). He desires us to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord (2 Peter 3:18). He wants us to develop the right priorities and then live according to them. These are:
1. God and His kingdom must be first (Matthew 6:33).
2. The eternal takes precedence over the temporal (2 Cor. 4:18).
3. The spiritual takes precedence over the physical (Matt. 6:19-20).
4. People take first place over things (Mark 8:36-37).

Now, how will these goals be best achieved? By a systematic series of steps, carried out preferably with an ongoing accountability to someone you respect as godly and spiritually discerning, who will give you the time.

These steps might include:
1. Things you need to stop: Idle talk, excessive "putting off" , excess sleep, "junk TV watching, etc.
2. Things you need to start: Prayer list of those you are concerned about, systematic planned prayer times.
a daily "to do list."

The above is simply a basic example of a life dedicated to putting God first and developing an intimate relationship with the One who loves you unconditionally and desires you to experience His best for your life. Make your goals realistic and attainable, as well as challenging!