The Bible is filled with stories of people who knew how to get things done. If Noah had never finished building the ark, if Moses had not rescued his people from oppression, if Joseph and Samuel and David and Solomon and Isaiah and Paul and all the other heroes of the Bible and of history had not been true to their visions, where would you and I be?
Now is the day to begin moving in the direction of your dreams! Here are four ways to accomplish your goals.
Start each day with encouragement for your soul. Order Mornings with Jesus 2019
1. Prepare
To learn how to do what you most want to do, begin by looking at one of the first stories Jesus told, in Matthew 13:3-9; 18-23. This parable about the seed-sower contrasts hard, stony or weed-filled soil with “good ground,” tilled and ready for good results.
As every gardener knows, the best seed cannot do well unless the soil is prepared. Prepare for accomplishment by focusing on exactly what you want to do, asking God for His help, and developing a positive attitude.
Each one of us has unique abilities. “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us,” as Romans 12:6 tells us, “let us use them.” Identify your gifts, set goals for them, and use them.
2. Clear Away the Obstacles
Just as a farmer has to clear away stones and weeds before he can plant, so we, too, need to remove the obstructions that keep us from reaching our objectives.
Whether it’s lack of priorities, perfectionism, trying to do too much, messy surroundings, inability to say no, fatigue and lack of exercise, interruptions—whatever! Pray about how to eliminate (or spend less time on) whatever keeps you from achieving your goals.
3. Plant the Seed Deep
Picture exactly what you want to do. Write out your objective and how you plan to reach it. Say aloud to yourself every morning, “With the help of God, I will _____________.”
4. Nourish Your Dream
Preparation and planting, in gardening and in life, are futile without cultivation and nourishment. Once you have settled on a new plan of accomplishment, put it into practice immediately. Then, continue it every day for at least 30 days without interruption.
Your dream will become a blessed reality when you put it in the hands of God, let Him work through you, and allow His presence to nourish your soul. “Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
