Sometimes as leaders we get so wrapped up with the need to identify our purpose, mission, and vision that we lose sight of what it’s all about. We set goals that enable us to accomplish our vision, sometimes forgetting that it’s not about what we do but Who we know. When our focus shifts off of Christ and on to our vision and goals, it will be difficult to maintain a Christ-like intent and pursuit in vision and goal setting.
What Happens with Christ as the Focus
When the focus is on Christ, we’re able to set aside not only non-essentials but also our personal needs for accomplishment and acclaim in the pursuit. — “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.” (Phil. 3:7) And so, we gain clarity in our priorities.
When it’s about Christ, it’s not about what we’ve done but rather being “found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ” (Phil. 3:9). And so, we regularly undergo motivational and attitudinal adjustments that keep us on track.
When the focus is on Christ, we humbly admit that we haven’t arrived and we keep pursuing that which brings us closer and closer to Him. — “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.” (Phil. 3:12) And so, we keep revisiting and revising our vision statement to ensure progress in this pursuit.
The Steering the Church Toward Christ-like Character Leadership Guide concludes with some questions to help us assess whether we’re keeping Christ as the focus.
For More, Go To: Leadership Skill: Goal-Setting & Vision Casting
All Posts about Vision Casting & Goal-Setting:
- Have a Vision that Expresses Your Purpose?
- Have a Vision That Clarifies Your Purpose?
- Have a Vision Challenging Enough to Reach Your Purpose?
- Who Sets the Vision?
- Behind the Great Commission
- Good Example of Mission & Vision
- No Specific Examples of Goals in the Great Commission?
- Christ-like Intent in Vision & Goal-Setting
- Christ-like Pursuit of Vision & Goals
- Christ as the Focus, Not the Vision & Goals
- Power to Grasp and Implement a New Vision for the Church
- Vision and Goals Born Out of Prayer
- Vision and Goals Grounded in the Gospel
- Vision and Goals Enveloped by Grace
- Vision and Goals Guided by the Holy Spirit
- Vision and Goals Pursued Through Spiritual Gifting
- Where Might God Want to Take Your Church?
- Vision Casting That Engages People
- Goal-Setting to Reach Our Vision
- Vision and Goals Protected by Spiritual Means
- Vision Problems Solved