It's a question I'm asking myself these days as I've plunged into 2013 with several goals in mind. We Mamas are responsible for so much, and a new year provides opportunity to look at everything with fresh eyes. There's the house, the kids, the marriage, the many responsibilities. Maybe we run a business or volunteer extensively. Whatever it is, I think it's safe to say we are always coordinating something....for someone.

On one hand, among Christian women is a desire to serve God well -- and with excellence. When done rightly, this truly pleases our God. After all, He did tell us to be the salt of the earth, and the light of the world. Our good deeds should give God incredibly glory and have those around us wanting to know more about Him (Matthew 5: 14-16).

But on the other hand, we don't always do this rightly. I'm raising my hand high as being guilty of this trap.

Instead of seeking to glorify God first, we're jumping headlong into our own ideas and our own plans without even talking to Him first! Again, guilty here!

Ever been inspired by an article, a blog post, a conversation and left thinking..."well, I'm going to do that!" Nothing wrong with this, as long as we take it to God first. We'll know if our goals are realistic or not, His plans for us or not, by simply asking Him and then waiting for the green light.

So, are your goals for this year realistic?

A few questions to help in thinking:

did you pray about them?
if married, have you talked to your spouse about them and received an okay? (or received any necessary counsel?)
did God give the go ahead, a green light, a yes?
have you counted the cost?
do you have a plan? will it honor you and your family?

Each of these steps in not always easy or quick to do, but I think the steps are often this simple.

God's plan for you may require sacrifice and a laying aside of distractions...in fact, I think most of His ideas do! But moving forward on goals and plans with a steady sense of peace -- even in the midst of hard work -- is what we should be after.

And really, only God can orchestrate all our details with accuracy, so it's definitely wise to seek His input. Then you'll know more clearly if your goals are realistic for you and/or your family.

"Not to us oh Lord, not to us, but to your name be the glory..." (Psalm 115:1)

Happy start to 2013!

{clip art credit; post written by Daniele of Domestic Serenity}