Will You Hit The Mark?

I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling which is in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14

The original Greek word for mark used in Philippians 3:14 is skopos. This word conveys the idea of looking at a distant mark, target, or goal. And there is a reward or prize that comes with attaining a goal. We know that the greatest or overarching goal is the “high calling which is in Christ Jesus.” I believe a fundamental part of our high calling in Christ is the vision that God places in our hearts – those things that He has specifically called us to accomplish. Are you making slow progress in pressing toward the mark of the high calling? Let’s take a look at Philippians 3:14 and explore how goals are essential to making progress.

What’s the difference between a vision and a goal? A vision is a destination, while a goal is made up of the individual steps to reach the destination

No vision is transformed from idea to reality without goals. It is through goals that we “hit the mark.” But a goal that hits the mark is much more than stating your desired destination.

What are the characteristics of goals that are likely to propel us to our destination? Here are some of the essential features.

First, goals must be God-directed. God is pleased when we acknowledge Him as the director of our steps (Proverbs 16:9). He had plans for us when he chose us before the foundation of the earth! Our lack of wisdom can always be remedied by asking God for His wisdom (James 1:5). By faith we seek His wisdom and then set our goals after His counsel. We can also seek godly counsel from others, but our first source is God Himself.

Next, goals must be God-sized. The world’s wisdom tells us that goals must be attainable. But what thrill of accomplishment or satisfaction of obedience is there to setting goals that can be accomplished apart from God? Never limit yourself to goals that you can accomplish in your own strength. Stretch yourself to attain God-sized goals. He is behind you 100 percent.

Also, goals must be specific. Given the following two goals, which would you predict to be successfully accomplished: A) Lose weight –or- B) Lose 5 kilos by October 30? Choice A can hardly be called a goal. It is a wish with no backbone. Choice B features the specifics of kilos and elapsed time. Adding these specifics creates commitment to follow through and “hit the mark.” Specific goals also allow for progress checks along the way. We can judge if our effort is sufficient or effective and make changes needed to improve our progress.

Finally, goals that truly stretch us are best served by accountability. Adding accountability to your goals elevates their importance and likelihood that they will not fall by the wayside. We are, of course, always accountable to God. But it can be convenient to “forget” what He has told us to do. I personally respond best when there is also an element of accountability to another Believer.

Are you convinced of the importance of setting goals to making progress toward your God-given vision? If you have stalled, ask God for wisdom in what to do next. Revisit your goals to make sure that they are constructed in the best way to move you forward.

Will you choose to believe that God will empower you hit the mark? Now, that’s the choice-driven life!

Today’s Bible Reading: 

2 Chr 29-31; 1 Cor 8

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