fbpx
Ten8 Fire

What is possible in 2019?

B. Keith Chapman, President & CEO

 

Are you ready for 2019? Many have already strategized and established goals to be accomplished in the New Year. Some also used the last month or so to reflect on the successes and failures of the previous year. This process often helps establish the level of commitment and ultimately the loftiness of the goals established for the New Year. Each of us is programmed to enjoy and desire success, while failure can lead to discouragement and underperformance. Whether you have had a great year, a mediocre year or a terrible year, paying attention to your level of expectation for yourself can prove to be very helpful moving forward.

 

Tommy Lasorda once said, “The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a man’s determination”. When we are not successful in meeting an established goal in life, it is natural to be apprehensive about establishing more goals that require high levels of achievement. Failure tends to make us less aggressive with our expectations going forward. When doubt enters our decision-making process, we begin to establish parameters on what we believe might be possible. Failure to meet established expectations and goals typically results in a more conservative approach to goal settings. A conservative approach to the New Year can negatively impact what you accomplish. So, have you asked yourself what is possible in 2019 for you, your family and your work?

 

In Philippians Chapter 3, the Apostle Paul gives some very applicable and wise advice to the Philippians. Verse 12 reads, “I don’t mean to say that I have already achieved these things or that I have already reached perfection. But I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us”. One thing I admire about Paul’s advice is his approach to the topic and recognition that he is a work in progress, just like everyone else. He first admits that he has not yet mastered the advice that he is giving, but explains that he remains focused on what lies ahead and the ultimate goal of finishing the race (the journey of life) in a way that is pleasing to God.

 

We live in a world that at times seems to be filled with limitations, restrictions, and disappointments. However, we have reason to be encouraged even when things do not go exactly as planned. The journey of life is more than just one good or bad season. It is the culmination of all our decisions and experiences. Keeping ourselves focused on the future, rather than the past, is healthy for us as individuals and encouraging to those around us. As we start 2019, we are each presented a fresh year to influence people and accomplish great things. Don’t let the struggles and failures of last year stifle your expectations and goals in 2019. Keep your plans closely aligned with God’s plan and purpose for your life, and stay focused on the opportunities that lie ahead. I pray that each of you and your families have a blessed and prosperous year!

 

Challenge: Learn from past failures and challenges; maintain a high level of expectation for your accomplishments regardless of your level of success in 2018; stay focused on the future and God’s ultimate plan for your life.

 

Published: January 2019

Return to Living the Mission library