Going in Grace

Welcome to Going in Grace, a podcast where we go beyond simply understanding God's word. We explore how to live it out daily, making a meaningful impact in our lives and the lives of those around us. Let's tune in to this week's episode.

Today, we're talking about something so many of us can relate to, falling off track with the goals we set at the start of the year. As we step into the second quarter, it's easy to feel discouraged about unmet goals we've abandoned or never even started. Don't lose heart. Today, we'll explore biblical truths and practical steps to help us recommit, refocus, and press toward our goals with God's strength, not our own. Let's dig into this together.

It's normal to feel like you've fallen short. Life gets busy, distractions arise, and our motivation wanes. Some of us have encountered major life experiences this year with the loss of a loved one, new addition to the family, a move or a new job. We have to acknowledge where we are without falling into self-pity. The need to make adjustments and refocus is something we all face. We should consider this to be a very normal part of our human experience. Even the apostle Paul faced challenges in staying focused. In Romans 7:15,Paul says, I do not understand what I do, but what I want to do, I do not do, but what I hate, I do. This is a powerful reminder that we all struggle. The key is not to stay stuck in that struggle. Philippians 3:13 through 14 English standard version gives us this encouragement. "Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own, but one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead. I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." This verse teaches us to let go of past failures and focus on moving forward.

Falling off track doesn't mean we failed. It simply means we need to realign ourselves with God's plan and keep pressing on. When we set goals, it's important to ask ourselves, are these goals aligned with God's purpose for my life? Proverbs 16:3 says, "commit your work to the Lord and your plans will be established." Often we get sidetracked because our goals are rooted in our own desires rather than God's will. Let me give you an example. If your goal is to advance in your career, ask yourself, am I seeking this for personal glory or am I seeking to honor God through my work? When our goals align with his purpose, He strengthens us to accomplish them. Matthew 6:33 reminds us, "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." By putting God in the center of our plans, we tap into his wisdom, guidance, and provision.

So how can we refocus and stay on track with our goals? Here are three practical steps that are grounded in scripture.

First, reconnect with God in prayer. Begin by inviting God into your process. James 1:5 says, "any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." Ask him for clarity and guidance as you recommit to your goals. Number two, break it down into manageable steps. Sometimes we give up because our goals feel overwhelming. Proverbs 21:5 teaches us, "the plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." Take small, consistent steps, trusting that God will bless your diligence. And number three, lean on community for support. Ecclesiastes 4:9 through 10 says "two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up."

Share your goals with a trusted friend or church group. Accountability and encouragement go a long way. Remember, the road to fulfilling God's plan for your life is a journey. Even small steps taken faithfully will lead to great progress. If you've fallen off track, you're not alone and it's not too late. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, "but those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not grow weary. They shall walk and not faint." God is not looking at your setbacks. He's looking at your heart and your willingness to trust him. Remember his mercies are new every morning. That's in Lamentations 3:22 through 23. And his grace is sufficient for every step you take. That's in 2 Corinthians 12:9.

As you move forward, let Philippians 4:13 be your anthem. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." With God's help, you can overcome obstacles, resist distractions, and achieve the goals he's placed on your heart. Thank you for joining me today on Going In Grace. If you've been feeling discouraged about your goals, I hope this episode has reminded you that with God, it's never too late to start again. You can do it. Recommit your plans to him, lean on his word and keep pressing forward, one faithful step at a time.

If this message has encouraged you, please share it with someone who might need a little hope and inspiration. Don't forget to subscribe for future episodes. Until next time, keep your eyes on Jesus and trust that he will guide you every step of the way. You've been listening to Going In Grace. Be sure to visit us online at brandistover.com.