A Christian’s Guide to Goal Setting
The Power of Prioritizing: A Christian’s Guide to Goal Setting
Goal setting and understanding the buckets in which we spend our time is one of the most impactful tools for creating a fulfilling lifestyle. Yet, for many of us, life’s demands can make it easy to fixate on one area while neglecting others. When we let a single aspect dominate our focus, it can overshadow all the good happening in the rest of our lives. That’s why defining a clear list of priorities that spans every area of life—and writing them down—is essential. Priorities bring clarity, focus, and balance, ensuring that when one area struggles, it doesn’t derail our entire outlook. For the Christian man or woman, our priorities begin and end with aligning our life with God’s will.
Let’s dive into this framework, starting with the foundational truth: our relationship with Jesus.
1. Jesus Time
Above all else, our relationship with Jesus should be our first priority. Matthew 6:33 reminds us to “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” If we’re not in right standing with God, everything else in life will feel off balance. Daily time in prayer, reading Scripture, and worship isn’t just a “good idea”—it’s essential for a vibrant, God-centered life.
2. Marriage / Spouse (if Married)
For those who are married, your spouse is your earthly partner, your teammate, and your greatest ally in life’s journey. Being in lockstep with your spouse is vital to driving the rest of your life forward. Invest in this relationship—communicate openly, pray together, and protect your time with one another. Strong marriages lay the foundation for a thriving family and personal life.
3. Kids / Family
If you have children, your role as a parent is a sacred calling. Raising children in faith and love requires intentionality, patience, and dedication. Beyond children, nurturing your relationships with extended family helps create a strong support system that anchors your life.
4. Professional Goals
God calls us to work diligently and with excellence in whatever we do (Colossians 3:23). Having clear professional goals helps us steward our careers or vocations in a way that honors God and provides for our families. Whether it’s advancing in your career, starting a business, or pursuing a new skill, your work is a key part of living out your God-given purpose.
5. Financial Goals
Finances play a significant role in how we navigate life, and managing them wisely is a Biblical principle. Set clear goals for saving, budgeting, and allocating your funds. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance.” When your finances are in order, it’s easier to focus on other priorities without the stress of financial strain.
6. Giving / Generosity
Our finances are not just for us; they’re a tool to bless others. Are you tithing? Are you supporting ministries or giving offerings? True generosity flows from a heart that understands everything we have belongs to God. Look for ways to use your resources to serve others and further God’s kingdom.
7. Friendships
Investing in godly friendships is crucial for encouragement, accountability, and joy. Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Make it a priority to nurture the friendships that build you up and point you toward Christ.
8. Hobbies and Fun
Life is meant to be enjoyed, and recreation is a gift from God. Whether it’s fishing, painting, or gardening, hobbies can refresh your spirit and give you opportunities to connect with others. Don’t underestimate the importance of leisure in maintaining a balanced life.
9. Physical Fitness
Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Taking care of your physical health isn’t just about looking good—it’s about honoring God with the body He’s given you. Set goals to stay active, eat well, and prioritize rest to maintain your overall well-being.
God’s Blueprint for Priorities
When God gave the Israelites the Ten Commandments, He provided a model for how to live in alignment with His will. He wrote them down, made them simple and memorable, and gave them a visible place in their lives. Thousands of years later, those commandments remain a cornerstone of our faith.
Likewise, we should aim to make our priorities simple, impactful, and easy to remember. Write them down, post them somewhere visible, and revisit them regularly. A written list is a powerful tool for staying on track and remembering what matters most.
Life Is Short—Use Your Time Wisely
James 4:14 reminds us that life is a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Our time on earth is limited, and how we use it matters. By setting clear priorities, we can ensure we’re making the most of every moment and living in alignment with God’s plan.
This list is just a guide—but I hope it inspires you to think differently about goal setting in 2025. Let’s live intentionally, balancing all aspects of our lives, and putting Christ at the center of it all.
-Mark
