Looking Ahead to Tomorrow To Set Goals for Today
It’s so easy to get stuck in each day. To think about today’s laundry (piles!), today’s dinner (no idea!), and today’s to-do list (too long!). In my book Balanced, I encouraged parents to sit down and discuss their family goals. I’ve done this often in the past, and I know it’s something I need to do at least once a year. My family grows and changes, and my work opportunities also grow and change. It only makes sense to spend time with God and re-clarify family goals, too.
The Question:
Think about your family ten years from now. Where do you want to be?
My kids are currently ages twenty-four, twenty-one, nineteen, six, three, and three. Ten years from now I might have more grandkids, and my two single, older kids might be married. This reminds me to enjoy the time I have with them now!
My younger kids will be sixteen, thirteen, and thirteen. My plan is to still be homeschooling, to still be involved in our church, and to be discovering my kids’ gifts and talents.
In my career I hope to be writing . . . although maybe not as much. I’d like to travel with our family. John and I love road trips! I’d also like to expose my kids to the needs of the world, and hopefully we’ll be doing mission trips.
Basically, this shows me to stay on the path that I’m on with homeschooling, writing, and travel, but it’s the term “mission trips” that stood out to me most. Through Awana my little kids are learning Scripture, and I need to be joining them. Also, it’ll be important to start now to open up the world to them, and I’ve already thought of some “mission-minded” children’s books I’m going to pull off of my bookshelf to read. And the truth is . . . I also thought of a few book ideas I want to write concerning missionaries!
Considering ten years from now reminds me of things I need to do to prepare my children to impact the world for Christ must start today! And the things I need to do to prepare myself!
Steps You can Take:
- Spend time with my older kids while they are still unmarried, building great memories.
- Learn Scripture with my young kids to prepare for future ministry.
- Read missionary books to help my kids understand how the world needs Jesus!
How about you? How would you answer that question?
Today’s Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for the ability to plan and dream for your glory. Thank you for the reminder that what I do today will shape tomorrow. And finally, thank you for the reminder that any plans you have for me and my family include plans for your WORLD!
In Jesus name,
Amen
Resources You Might Like:
Around the World Coloring Book
Children Around the World
I Heard Good News Today
You can Change the World Today
Starting in late for the challenge! Just hoping I can get through it this week 🙂