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7 Areas of Life to Set Goals for a God-centered Life

Updated: 6 hours ago



While it might seem like we're suggesting that God wants us to check boxes or set goals, we aim to share something that could be beneficial as you consider areas of discipleship. Establishing goals rooted in biblical principles allows you to live purposefully, aligning your life with God’s intentions. By concentrating on these seven essential areas—spiritual, physical, emotional, marriage and family, friends, career, and financial—you can enhance your faith, balance, and sense of fulfillment. Below, we delve into each area with practical goal ideas, Scripture for inspiration, and counseling tips designed to help guide clients toward a God-centered life.

1. Spiritual: Growing Closer to God

Your spiritual life is the foundation of a purposeful existence. Goals in this area deepen your connection with God through prayer, Scripture, and service.

Goal Ideas:

  • Spend 10 minutes daily reading a devotional or Scripture passage.

  • Join a church Bible study to grow in community.

  • Serve in a ministry that aligns with your spiritual gifts.



2. Physical: Honoring Your Body as God’s Temple

Physical health equips you to serve God and others. Goals here focus on caring for your body through exercise, nutrition, and rest.

Goal Ideas:

  • Commit to a 20-minute walk or workout three times a week.

  • Plan meals with whole foods to fuel your body.

  • Establish a bedtime routine for 7–8 hours of restorative sleep.



3. Emotional: Finding Peace in Christ

Emotional health involves managing feelings and seeking God’s peace. Goals in this area build resilience and emotional stability.

Goal Ideas:

  • Practice gratitude by listing three things you’re thankful for daily.

  • Use prayer or deep breathing to manage stress or anxiety.

  • Seek counseling to process past hurts or emotional challenges.



4. Marriage and Family: Strengthening Godly Relationships

God designed families to reflect His love and unity. Goals here nurture your marriage and family connections.

Goal Ideas:

  • Plan a weekly family night, like a shared meal or activity.

  • Practice daily prayers or affirmations with your spouse or children.

  • Attend a marriage or parenting workshop to grow in faith together.



5. Friends: Building Christ-Centered Community

Godly friendships provide support and accountability. Goals in this area foster meaningful, faith-based connections.

Goal Ideas:

  • Reach out to a friend weekly for prayer or encouragement.

  • Join or host a small group for fellowship and Bible study.

  • Show kindness by writing a note to a friend who inspires you.

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17, ESV).


6. Career: Working for God’s Glory

Your career is a calling to use your gifts for God’s purposes. Goals here align your work with your faith and values.

Goal Ideas:

  • Pursue a skill-building course or certification to grow professionally.

  • Set boundaries to balance work with family or spiritual life.

  • Serve others through your job, like mentoring a colleague.

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17, ESV).


7. Financial: Stewarding God’s Blessings

Managing finances as a steward of God’s resources promotes freedom and generosity. Goals here focus on wise money management.

Goal Ideas:

  • Create a monthly budget to track income and expenses.

  • Set a goal to pay off a specific debt or build an emergency fund.

  • Commit to tithing or giving to a cause God places on your heart.

“The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1, ESV).


Questions:

  1. Which of these seven areas feels farthest from your ideal right now?

  2. What is one goal you can set this week to move closer to God’s purpose for you?

  3. How can our counseling practice support you in achieving your goals?


 
 
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