A Prayer About Goals

When I strive to reach my objectives

SOVEREIGN LORD,

As a goal-oriented person, I have objectives and specific outcomes in sight, and I work hard to accomplish them. I take this approach in all areas—career, finances, friendships, and even my spiritual life. This approach has served me well because I get things done. I love checking items off the to-do list. But I have become increasingly aware of weaknesses in this approach. Sometimes I use less than the best means to reach an end. Then I rationalize by pointing to the eventual good result. But I know that everything I do should please you—ends and means. Forgive me. I also sense that this goal-orientation keeps me looking toward the future, sometimes at the expense and neglect of the present. So I hurry ahead and miss important people and events right now. Thank you for all your gifts, especially my family and friends. Please help me relax as I “waste” time with them. And, of course, I want my goals to be in line with your will, so I pray for your guidance in setting them.

Whether we are here in this body or away from this body, our goal is to please him. 2 Corinthians 5:9