Page 70 - Principles for Discipling Others-Student textbook

Study Section 14: Setting goals and planning for the future

14.1 Connect.

Have you ever heard the saying, “If you aim at nothing, you are sure to hit it”? What this
means is that if you don’t set any future goals for yourself or your ministry, you probably will
accomplish very little, if anything. When God speaks to us about what He desires us to do,
we need to make a plan on how to accomplish that instruction. Of course, even the steps
toward accomplishing God’s will should be directed by Him and not of our own resourceful
planning. But we must set some goals and plan for the future submissive to God’s plans.

Today we want to learn about how to set goals for the future and how to plan to set up a discipleship
plan with others that will bear fruit.

14.2 Objectives:

1. We will review some tips about planning for the future.

2. We will develop a plan for mentorship of a new believer and suggest study topics to aid in
spiritual growth.

3. We will review a planning chart that will aid in reaching goals set for the future.

14.3 Setting goals and planning for the future

Once forgiven and assured that we are in Christ we can face the future with confidence,
not because we have learned from our mistakes, but because we know we are getting
nearer in time, to God our Almighty and heavenly Father. But until that day when we see
Jesus face to face, God has a job for you to accomplish. Here are some tips about walking
the journey ahead.

1. Choice - Think through many of the choices you have had to make in the past and evaluate them.
Were they good choices? … godly choices?, ....or not? If they come up again, pre-decide now what
decision would Jesus make? Then plan to follow Christ’s lead if that choice presents itself again.

2. Objectives – From this point on, what would I like to accomplish with my life? … with my resources?
... with my job?, … with my spouse and family? … with my resources?

3. Ideas – What can I do for others? … for myself? … for my family?
… for the Lord?

4. Immediate Plans - Go ahead and make a list beginning starting
tomorrow and extend it through the next week, month, and year.

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