Right Goal - Wrong Method

“If you have died with Christ to the elementary principles of the world, why, as if you were living in the world, do you submit yourself to decrees, such as, ‘Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch!’ (which all refer to things destined to perish with use)—in accordance with the commandments and teachings of men? These are matters which have, to be sure, the appearance of wisdom in self-made religion and self-abasement and severe treatment of the body, but are of no value against fleshly indulgence.”
Colossians 2:20-23

The 1988 Olympics was a masterpiece of athletes seeking to achieve enduring goals. Many did accomplish their objectives, but sadly some medal winners were disqualified following their performances due to illegal drug use. Their goals were reasonable, but their methods were tragically flawed - only reflecting the rationale that the end justifies the means. That line of thinking runs against the scriptural grain in every way. Our God is just as interested in how we achieve a goal as He is in the goal itself.

First, we must establish the primary motivation that God desires we use in setting our goals. The Westminster Catechism says, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” Whatever our goal may be - financial, physical, spiritual, family - we must ask ourselves this question: “Is my goal’s supreme purpose to glorify God?”

Since that is the purpose for which we were created, it follows that our goals must reflect that basic purpose. Sift your goal through prayer, common sense, and biblical wisdom to see if your objective’s chief purpose is to honor God.

“...whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
1 Corinthians 10:31