What is the First Goal for 2023?

The first goal I have for 2023 is to focus on the glory and wisdom of God. Every other goal will flow from that perspective.

Moses sang some words about God and about life in Psalm 90. He starts the psalm this way: “Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” Psalm 90:1-2

Psalm 90:1-2 From everlasting to everlasting God is God.

What should you and I understand from the first two lines? God is the secure place for all of time. He can be that because he is everlasting God. Before he made anything as the great Creator of everything, he was God.  These verses communicate his wisdom, power, and unending rule. How might that relate to life looking back and then looking forward?

1951 – 2022 In a Nutshell

Wayne and Cindie Winquist 1951-2022

I entered this world in 1951, and it is nothing less than amazing that I have made it to 2023. God has been gracious to me every step of the way. This includes the good times and the very difficult days. I see his hand of mercy and kindness in the parents he provided. His goodness continued during the years I was growing up in Naperville, Illinois, and then in New Berlin, Wisconsin.

I have seen his goodness in the jobs he ordained for me to have. That included delivering newspapers as a teenager, working in a manufacturing company after high school, my years in the United States Navy, and then the roles I had at Universal Foods Corporation, Conney Safety Products, Parts Now, Target, and The Home Depot.

I’ve seen his care for me when my appendix ruptured in 1976 and when our children were born. He has given us challenging times in caring for aging parents and those who are struggling or hurting with similar life experiences. He has kept us healthy and kept us from even greater harm than we can imagine. But he has also permitted us to struggle with terrible skin problems, waning strength, and annoying allergies. Each step of the way he provided care.

I’ve seen his generosity in providing a wonderful wife who has loved me when I was not worthy of love. I’ve seen God’s provision as we have raised our children and given us grandchildren.  God has also blessed us with brothers and sisters in Christ in our church home in Verona, Wisconsin.

God has wisely given us opportunities to serve with the Chinese people and the people of India. He has provided days to teach, preach, lead, counsel, encourage, and care for friends.

Review Your Life and Plan Accordingly

Are you numbering your days?

Let me encourage you to review your life. Has it had meaning? Does it have purpose for today? Do you understand your purpose? This is very important if you want to set meaningful goals. If you do not understand why you were created, then it is very likely you will not have goals that match up with your purpose and God’s glory. The amazing thing about seeking God’s glory is that it is actually for our good. Don’t miss that as you think about however many more days you have.

Moses says something that me must not ignore in Psalm 90:12 – “So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.” I will talk more about this in my next 2023 Goal Setting series. Are you willing to be taught to number your days?

Psalm 90:12 Number our days to get wisdom.

All scripture passages are from the English Standard Version except as otherwise noted.