Reflection 2022 Goal Setting 2023
- Reflection 2022
- Part one – Reflection
- The Lord establishes his steps
- Part Two – Focus
We have stepped into 2023. We have put away holiday decorations, vacation time is over, and we are getting back to our normal schedules. We have new planners, updated our electronic calendars and are trying to set goals and plans for the new year. We are making our plans for new beginnings, and we have it all figured out.
Did you know God wants to be a part of your planning for the new year?
God has a purpose and plan for your life. He has the roadmap for 2023. He wants you to reflect on his goodness, grace, and mercy from 2022 and before you start 2023, spend time reflecting and listening for his direction.
Reflect – give thought, think deeply or carefully, think about, give thought(Merrian Webster)
Reflection 2022
Taking time to reflect provides a natural end to 2022 and a new focus for a new beginning in 2023. I encourage you to take a day off for some time of reflection. You may think you will not need this time, but you will be amazed at what you will see. I assure you; it will open your eyes and give you a new focus for 2023.
Spending quiet time with God is always blessed time. It provides you an opportunity to be still and listen to the Holy Spirit. You create an intimate relationship with God and he reveals new insights and wisdom.
Take a break from social media on your day off. Turn it off! Clear your mind and space of clutter. Find a relaxing space, get a journal, and answer the questions listed below in Part One. Reflect!
Part One – Reflection
- What was your greatest joy in 2022?
- What did you accomplish in 2022?
- Were you obedient to God in 2022?
- How did you see the Lord’s work in your life in 2022?
- Is there a particular Bible verse or passage that ministered to you in 2022?
- Where did you see the Lord using your gifts to serve others?
- In what ways did you waste time, money, and talents?
- What was your deepest struggle this year?
- What were you grateful for?
- What is God pleased with that you did in 2022?
- Is your giving (time, money, service) generous and cheerful? How much time did you spend on social media?
- Did you schedule one on one time with God daily? ie…studying scriptures, reading bible, being still
- Have you taken time to pray and spend time with God about goals and plans for 2023?
After you complete Part One, take a break.
Review your journaling entries. Paying attention to the accomplishments, lessons, struggles and key learnings from 2022.
The Lord establishes his steps
“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”
Listen to the Holy Spirit. Are your plans God’s plans? What should you be focusing on in 2023?
I believe you will be surprised at what God has in store for you. God will give you wisdom and you will be led by the Holy Spirit for guidance.
As you reflect and pray; ask God for patience, guidance, and wisdom. Listen for His purpose and let Hm guide you. God will reveal to you what steps to take, and He will be with you every step of the way.
Part Two – Focus
Journal about these questions:
- What are the things I need to let go of before the new year?
- What did God show me in my reflection 2022?
- What are my plans/goals for 2023?
- What is God saying to me about my 2023 plans?
- What do I need to take to God in prayer?
Trust God, spend time with Him, read his word, be obedient and repent.
Follow the steps God has established. He is your Shepard!
Meditate on Psalm 23 and praise God for what He has done, and look forward to what He will do in 2023!
Psalm 23 (ESV)
“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life,
And I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”