Begin With the End in Mind (and Sight)

But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? Luke 14:28 (NLT)

Leadership guru Stephen R. Covey, in his very popular book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, writes that those who will be effective in life and leadership should “Begin with the End in Mind.” I agree. And, I would add that we should begin with the end not only in our minds, but also, in our sight. We should have a clear vision for where we want to end up at the start of every journey or endeavor. Most of us do this in our natural lives. The question I would like to pose to you, is do you have an end in mind for yourself spiritually? If not, let me encourage you to get one.

Where do you want to go when your life on earth is over? Who do you want to be spiritually next week, next month, or even next year? You will not just end up being a person of strong faith, prayer, discipline, and a reader of God’s Word. No, you will develop a strong spiritual life because you aim for it each day. Take some time here at the start of the year to set a plan for your life, spiritually. Then, do the work to make it happen, by faith.

Everything about our natural lives – mind, body, and emotions – is predicated upon our spirits. When we have a firm spiritual foundation, we are better equipped to navigate the varying storms, winds, and waves of life. God loves you and has great plans for all areas of your life. Be sure to align yourself with that plan daily and thereby ensure your success. No, we won’t always end up exactly where we wanted or thought we would be. Yet somehow, with God as our Compass and Guide, we will rest knowing that where we are, and where we are going, is just fine.

And he [Jesus] said to them all, “If you want to come with me, you must forget yourself, take up your cross every day, and follow me. Luke 9:23 (GNT)

Loving and praying for you,
Pastor Danielle