January 1, 2026

SET GOALS THAT MATTER

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

Matthew 5:16 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

As you set goals, pause long enough to ask a few deeper questions.

If I accomplish this goal, what will truly change in my world?

If I reach this goal, will God be glorified through my life?

It’s easy to aim low—to pursue goals that mainly bring comfort, convenience, or recognition. But Jesus invites us to live with a higher purpose. Our lives are meant to point beyond ourselves.

What if our goals were shaped by a kingdom vision?

What if we worked harder, stretched further, and lived more intentionally—not just to get ahead, but to make a lasting difference and honor God?

Ask yourself:

Will the world be better because I pursued this goal?

Will people be more drawn to worship my heavenly Father because I followed through?

These are challenging questions, but they are powerful filters. They help us choose goals that shine light instead of simply building platforms.

Let’s be bold enough to set goals that matter—goals that impact our world and bring glory to God.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, show me how You want to work through my life to impact my world. Help me set God-sized goals that make a real difference and lead others to see Your glory. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”