Feeling Stuck in Your Goals? Here’s How to Set God-Honoring Ones That Actually Move You Forward

When Goals Feel Heavy

Let’s talk real for a second—have you ever felt the pressure of setting goals that sound good, look good, but deep down… don’t feel right?

Maybe you’ve mapped out a perfect 90-day business plan, set the revenue targets, scheduled the launch—but your spirit feels restless. You’re doing all the right things, but something’s off.

I’ve been there. And if I’m honest, I’ve chased goals before that looked like success on paper, but left me drained, disconnected from God, and doubting my purpose.

Here’s what I’ve learned: God doesn’t just want us to achieve—He wants us to align.

God First. Strategy Second.

There’s nothing wrong with being strategic. In fact, I love a good spreadsheet and a color-coded planner. But what matters most isn’t what I plan—it’s who I’m partnering with.

Proverbs 16:3 says it so clearly:
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.”

That word—commit—means to surrender. It’s not about asking God to bless the goals we’ve already decided on. It’s about asking Him to guide the vision from the start.

So before you set your next goal, ask:
➡️ God, what do YOU want to do in and through me this season?
➡️ What would it look like to serve and steward well in this chapter?

That’s where peace starts.

Surrender Isn’t Laziness—It’s Trust

Let’s clear this up: surrendering your goals to God doesn’t mean sitting on the couch and waiting for miracles.

Surrender means you show up, you work hard, you take action—but you release the outcome. You trust that even if things don’t go according to your timeline, God’s timing is better.

And I know that’s easier said than done, especially when bills are due or the launch flops or you feel like you're falling behind.

But I’ve seen it firsthand—when I let go, God shows up. And when I put my faith before my hustle, things begin to shift in ways I never could’ve manufactured on my own.

Fear Is Loud. Faith Is Louder.

Sometimes the reason we don’t set big, bold, God-honoring goals is because we’re scared. Scared of failure. Of disappointment. Of what people will think if we try and don’t succeed.

But here’s what I want to remind you:
You’re not building your business alone.

You are partnering with the Creator of the universe. The One who gives purpose, direction, and supernatural provision. The One who says:

“I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you and not to harm you.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

So take that step. Even if your voice shakes. Even if the numbers don’t make sense. Even if you don’t feel “ready.”

Set the goal. Pray over it. Work toward it. And trust God to do what only He can do.

Stewardship > Striving

I want to leave you with this simple truth:
God isn’t asking you to strive harder—He’s asking you to steward better.

Your time. Your energy. Your talents. Your business. They’re all gifts. And when you manage those gifts with integrity, humility, and a heart to serve—you will see fruit.

So ask yourself:

• Am I building this for my name or His?
  
  
• Am I chasing numbers or nurturing people?
  
  
• Am I trying to control every detail or walking in daily obedience?
  
  

Because real success isn’t just about hitting goals—it’s about honoring God in the process.

FAQs

How do I know if my goals are God-honoring?
Pray over them. Ask for wisdom. Compare them to the fruit of the Spirit and the Word. God-honoring goals bring peace, serve others, and align with His heart—not just your hustle.

Can I still plan practically and have faith?
Yes! Faith and strategy go hand-in-hand. Set plans, but hold them loosely. Be diligent, but stay open to God’s redirection.

What if my goals aren’t working out the way I expected?
Sometimes closed doors are divine protection. Trust that God sees the full picture. Keep showing up with faith, and He’ll work all things for your good.

How can I stay focused on God when I’m overwhelmed with business tasks?
Start your day in prayer. Pause when you feel stressed. Keep scripture in sight. And remember—God is with you even in your to-do list.

Final Encouragement

Friend, God’s not looking for your perfection—He’s looking for your surrender. And when you offer your goals, your dreams, and your deadlines to Him, He will take your “little” and turn it into so much more.

Don’t be afraid to dream big—just dream with God.
Don’t be afraid to set goals—just invite Him in.

Because when your goals are God-led, your success is God-backed. And that kind of success? It lasts.

🎧 Want More?
Tune in to Episode 13 of the Joy Inspired Podcast:
🎙 “Setting God-Honoring Goals: Aligning Ambition with Purpose”
Grab your Bible, a cozy blanket, and let’s talk about dreaming with God—where obedience meets overflow.