Spiritual Goal-Setting: How to Grow Closer to God This Year

The start of a new year is a natural time for reflection and goal-setting. Many of us use this opportunity to set resolutions like improving our health, finances, or relationships. But what about our relationship with God? If growing closer to Him is your desire, setting spiritual goals can help you prioritize your faith and deepen your walk with the Lord in a meaningful way.

Here are some practical and faith-filled steps to help you set and achieve spiritual goals this year.

1. Start with Prayer

Every journey with God begins with prayer. Before you set any goals, spend time seeking His guidance. Ask Him to reveal the areas of your spiritual life that need growth and to show you how He wants to work in and through you this year.

James 1:5 encourages us: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” Let prayer be the foundation of your goal-setting process.

2. Reflect on Your Spiritual Life

Take an honest inventory of where you are in your relationship with God. Ask yourself questions like:

• How often do I spend time in prayer and Scripture?

• Am I actively involved in a faith community?

• Are there sins or distractions pulling me away from God?

• Do I feel spiritually dry or distant from Him?

Reflection helps you identify areas for growth and gives you clarity about what spiritual goals will be most impactful.

3. Set Specific and Achievable Goals

When it comes to spiritual growth, vague intentions like “be more spiritual” or “pray more” are hard to follow through on. Instead, set specific, measurable goals that give you a clear sense of direction. For example:

• Spend 15 minutes in prayer every morning.

• Read through the New Testament by the end of the year.

• Memorize one Bible verse each week.

• Volunteer once a month in a ministry or outreach program.

Small, consistent steps often lead to the greatest spiritual transformation.

4. Make Your Goals God-Centered

Spiritual goals should always point you toward God, not just personal achievement. It’s easy to focus on the checklist — how many chapters of the Bible you’ve read or how many prayers you’ve said — but the real purpose of these goals is to draw you closer to Him.

Matthew 6:33 reminds us, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Keep your goals rooted in your desire to know and love God more fully.

5. Create a Plan and Stay Consistent

Good intentions often falter without a plan. Once you’ve set your goals, outline the steps you’ll take to achieve them. For example:

• Choose a specific time and place for prayer or Bible study.

• Use a devotional or reading plan to stay on track.

• Set reminders on your phone or calendar to stay consistent.

Consistency is key. Even when you don’t feel motivated, showing up matters. Over time, these spiritual disciplines will become a natural and cherished part of your daily life.

6. Find Accountability

Sharing your spiritual goals with a trusted friend, mentor, or small group can provide encouragement and accountability. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

Let others support you in your journey, and don’t be afraid to ask for prayer or guidance when challenges arise.

7. Embrace Grace Over Perfection

It’s easy to feel discouraged when you fall short of your spiritual goals. Maybe you missed a day of prayer or fell behind on your Bible reading plan. But remember: God’s grace is greater than your shortcomings.

Lamentations 3:22-23 reassures us, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Focus on progress, not perfection, and trust that God is working in your life even when you feel like you’ve stumbled.

8. Celebrate Milestones

Take time to celebrate the ways God is moving in your life as you pursue your spiritual goals. Did you finish a devotional series? Did you experience a breakthrough in prayer? Did you step out in faith to serve someone in need?

These moments are worth celebrating because they reflect God’s faithfulness and your obedience. Gratitude fuels motivation and keeps your heart focused on His goodness.

9. Stay Open to God’s Surprises

While setting goals is important, remain open to the unexpected ways God may work in your life. Sometimes He shifts our focus, opens new doors, or brings challenges that grow our faith in ways we didn’t anticipate. Trust His plan and be willing to adjust your goals as He leads.

Proverbs 19:21 reminds us, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Let your spiritual goals be a guide, not a rigid script.

A Year of Growth and Grace

This year, let’s commit to setting spiritual goals that draw us closer to God and align our lives with His purpose. Whether you’re starting small or taking on a big challenge, remember that every step you take in faith is significant. God delights in your desire to know Him more and will meet you in every moment of your journey.

As you move forward, keep your eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith (Hebrews 12:2). With Him, this year can be a season of transformation, renewal, and deepened relationship with the One who loves you most.