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Trust in God when setting goals

By Loretta Thomas-Whiteside | The News Herald

Published: July 25, 2008

We all realize that a college education is very important for our young people to have any chance at a decent life.

Our children are the keepers of our future. The many skills and lessons taught in college prepare a person for the various challenges to be faced in society upon entering the working world.

In looking at the direction our country is progressing we possibly need to rethink the information we pass on to our youngsters as a guide for future living.

To be successful, be mindful that nothing will be achieved without praying and asking our Savior for what we want and having the faith that He will answer our prayers.

In asking blessings, let's remember the difference between asking our Savior to do and to give. When praying, according to John 14:14, you are asking God, in the name of Jesus Christ, to do something for you - to destroy curses, to forgive your sins, to forgive sins of a loved one, to destroy evil strongholds, to protect your child, to grant you the knowledge to achieve personal goals you set for yourself, etc.

When praying, according to John 16:23, you are asking your Heavenly Father to give you something in Jesus Christ's name - for example, to give you total deliverance, to give total peace, to give your child salvation, to give you financial freedom or to give you awareness to accomplish your goals to enjoy your livelihood, etc.

No matter what we pursue in life as our livelihood or occupation, the one thing we need is the faith to realize we also need the guidance of our lord and savior Jesus Christ. Communicating with Him is the reassurance of knowing anyone can come to the awareness of being in His good grace.

God's plans are awesome and He is overflowing with joy to have happy and grateful children. He will help us to understand our course of action to successfully reach our goals. Ask God for the willpower to develop a plan of action before pursuing goals.

We should have the confidence to challenge ourselves and a plan to succeed. Have the desire to present a needed product or service to consumers. Document your goals, listing positive and negative objectives and what actions need to take place for completion. Set yourself deadlines.

Never allow fear to enter into your plans, it will discourage or destroy your spirit.

We will embark on many endeavors in life. If we have a strong spiritual core, difficult times will be easier to deal with on a daily basis. When we clothe ourselves with His armor, God will help us to be strong and find the courage, hope and power in Him and His Word.

Self-motivation is a tool needed to achieve great things for and from God.

True leaders distinguish themselves through their vision. People can transform long-term goals into workable plans by surrounding themselves with positive people and the understanding of God. Set yourself up for excellence and let no one or anything can get in your way.
I am hopeful. You be also.

Loretta Thomas-Whiteside is a neighborhood news columnist for The News Herald.