It’s 2025—a new year! This is the year I turn 30, and for the past year or so, I’ve been confident that 30 is going to be my best year yet. I have a few different goals for this year that I’d like to accomplish. Some I hope will shift my life, while others are just for fun. Typically, I’m not the type of person to set goals; I usually let life flow and take challenges as they come. In my opinion, setting goals often feels like saying, “Here’s another challenge for you,” and I usually think I have enough challenges as it is. I’ve got many goals for 2025, but here are my top three.
The first goal I’ve set is to read thirty-three books by the end of the year. As I write this post, I’ve got three books going. I’m 22% of the way through one, 2% through another, and 75% of the way through the third. It’s almost the end of January, and if I can push and finish the three by then, I’ll be ahead of the curve!
The second goal I’ve set for myself is to build Fiscal Fitness, a bookkeeping business, to produce additional income. Some of you know, and some of you don’t, but I’ve got a good amount of debt—thank you, student loans! The goal is to create an income that will allow me to build the financial future I dream of.
The third goal I’ve set is to remain connected to the vine at all times. My life verse, John 15:5, reads, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
This serves as a daily reminder that my strength, guidance, and purpose come from staying rooted in my faith. By maintaining this connection, I aim to bear fruit in every area of my life, whether in relationships, work, or personal growth—knowing that true fulfillment is only possible when I abide in Him.
As I sat down, prayed, and determined what my goals would be, I wanted to dive into the Bible to see if goal-setting is biblical and, if so, what the proper way to create and build my goals would look like.
Question 1: Is setting goals biblical? YES!
The Bible emphasizes planning, intentionality, and seeking God's guidance in all we do. One of my favorite places to look is the Book of Proverbs. Whenever I think of “Proverbs,” I often think of old ancient sayings, and my mind rarely leans toward the Bible first—crazy! So, as I continue reshaping my view of Proverbs, let’s start there.
Proverbs 29:18 states, "Where there is no vision, the people perish," highlighting the importance of having clear direction and purpose. Similarly, Proverbs 21:5 teaches that diligent planning leads to success.
Question 2: How should I shape or plan my goals? With God.
Proverbs 16:3 encourages believers to "commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." So pray. Talk to God. Your goals should be shaped around His will for your life.
That’s where I want to focus today: shaping a God-centered goal. I want to be clear—I am no expert, but I think I have established some solid goals, and I’d love to see God’s children create strong, meaningful goals.
Let’s look at the story of Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1–6).
Step 1: Aligning Goals with God’s Will
Nehemiah’s goal to rebuild Jerusalem’s wall was deeply rooted in his desire to honor God and restore His people. When he heard of the city’s destruction, he wept, fasted, and prayed for God’s favor (Nehemiah 1:4-11). His goal wasn’t for personal gain but to fulfill God’s purposes.
Step 2: Seeking God’s Guidance
Before taking action, Nehemiah prayed, asking God to guide his steps and grant him success as he approached King Artaxerxes for permission to rebuild the wall. He relied on God to open doors rather than solely on his abilities.
Step 3: Focusing on External Impact
Nehemiah’s goal wasn’t just about rebuilding physical walls but also about restoring the identity, safety, and worship of God’s people. The wall symbolized God’s protection and faithfulness, carrying spiritual significance for generations.
Step 4: Being Humble and Flexible
When Nehemiah faced opposition, he remained humble and turned to God for wisdom and strength. He adapted his approach, setting up guards and working day and night to keep the work progressing (Nehemiah 4:13-23).
Step 5: Pursuing Goals with Diligence and Excellence
Nehemiah diligently organized the people and ensured everyone contributed. He stayed focused on the goal, refusing distractions from opponents who tried to intimidate him (Nehemiah 6:1-4).
Step 6: Prioritizing Love and Service to Others
Nehemiah wasn’t driven by ambition but by love for God and His people. He addressed the needs of the poor, ensuring fairness in the community (Nehemiah 5:1-13).
Step 7: Trusting God’s Timing
Nehemiah trusted God’s timing, waiting for the right moment to act and completing the project in just 52 days, despite immense opposition (Nehemiah 6:15-16).
Final Thoughts
Sounds easy? For me, the hardest part is trusting God’s timing. I always want things right away and tend to be impatient. But God’s timing is the best timing.
Do you think you’ll set your goals differently this time? Or do you have a goal-setting plan that works for you? If so, please share! I hope to keep you updated on my progress throughout the year, and if you see me slacking, hold me accountable!
Before We Go, Let’s Pray
Heavenly Father, thank You for the wisdom and strength You provide as we set and pursue our goals. Help us to align our plans with Your will, seeking Your guidance in every decision we make. Give us the diligence to work faithfully, the humility to trust Your timing, and the courage to overcome challenges with grace. May our goals bring glory to You and serve as a blessing to others. Fill our hearts with peace and love as we walk in Your purpose.
Amen.
Peace and Love. ❤️
Cody Daniel
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