by Jay Jarboe
One of the wonderful truths about God is His desire for relationship and partnership with His people. Paul reminds us, “we are God’s fellow workers” (1 Cor. 3:9a). The early church committed itself not just to ordinary activities but to meaningful spiritual relationships (Acts 2:42). Many believe that activities create relationships, but the opposite is true—the relationship comes first, and then shared actions follow. The Greek word for fellowship, koinonia, means to share together in partnership. As sharers with Christ, we are co-partners with Him and with each other in His work. God’s mission becomes our mission.
The SMART Goal Framework
- Specific – Clearly define your goal. What will you achieve? Who is involved? Where will it take place? Why is it important?
- Measurable – Set criteria to track progress and completion. How much? How many? How will we know it’s finished?
- Achievable – Make sure the goal is realistic based on available resources, volunteers, and time.
- Relevant – Make sure the goal matches your ministry’s mission and vision. Does it honor God and advance His purpose?
- Time-Bound – Set a specific deadline. When will it be finished?
Setting SMART goals is more than just a practical exercise — it is a spiritual discipline that reflects our partnership with God and others. When we plan intentionally, we steward God’s gifts with clarity and purpose. SMART goals help us move from good intentions to deliberate action, ensuring our efforts align with God’s mission and produce lasting fruit.
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3
About the Author
Jay Jarboe is the Director of the Emerging Leadership Initiative at Mission Resource Network (MRN), a global network with the vision to multiply healthy leaders to disciple the unreached and under-served people groups of the world. He is a coach and mentor for global leaders with a focus on equipping them to multiply healthy leaders for future generations.
Before joining the ministry of MRN, Jay served as the Lead Minister for the Sunset Church of Christ in Lubbock, Texas. During his 25-year ministry with the Sunset Church of Christ and Sunset International Bible Institute (SIBI), Jay served the Director of the Adventures in Missions (AIM) program, an apprentice missionary training program, and as the Dean of Missions and instructor at SIBI.
He is married to Sherry, and they have two adult children and four grandchildren: Kenny, Meagan, Cash, and Adelaide Husband; Ryan, Mary, Oliver, and Lucy Jarboe. Jay and Sherry were missionaries in Mexico City and now they work with global workers, leaders, and churches around the world. His passion is seeking to be transformed into the image of Christ and helping others in that same quest.
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