Let's be S.M.A.R.T about our Financial Goals

In a previous blog, we explored how God gives us the grace to achieve our financial goals. But while grace empowers us, wisdom guides us—and that’s where being SMART comes in.

Setting financial goals isn’t just about dreaming big; it’s about taking practical steps to align our finances with God’s purpose. SMART is an acronym used for goal setting. The SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—helps us create a clear and actionable plan.

• S – Specific (Clearly defined and focused)
• M – Measurable (Trackable with clear criteria)
• A – Achievable (Realistic and attainable)
• R – Relevant (Aligned with your overall objectives)
• T – Time-bound (Has a deadline or timeframe)


Applying SMART Goals to Financial Breakthrough
• Specific – Instead of saying, “I want to do better with my finances,” define what that looks like. Do you want to save more? Eliminate debt? Increase generosity? Grow investments?
• Measurable – Attach numbers to your goal. If you want to save, determine an amount. If you want to give, decide on a percentage. If investing is the goal, track your contributions.
• Achievable – Set goals that stretch your faith but remain realistic. For example, giving 50% of your income may not be feasible now, but increasing by 2% could be.
• Relevant – Align financial goals with your values. If you believe in biblical stewardship, your goals should reflect that—whether in savings, giving, or wealth-building.
• Time-bound – Without a timeline, goals remain wishes. Decide when you want to reach certain financial milestones and track progress along the way.

SMART Goals in Action: Giving, Saving, Investing, and Relationships
1. Giving: If generosity is a priority, set a SMART goal like: Increase my giving by 5% over the next six months by adjusting my budget and finding additional income streams.
2. Saving: If you want a stronger financial cushion, your goal might be: Save $3,000 in an emergency fund within 12 months by setting aside $250 each month.
3. Investing: If you’re looking to grow wealth, a SMART goal could be: Invest $100 per month into a retirement or brokerage account for the next year.
4. Relationships: Finances impact relationships, so a SMART goal might be: Have a monthly financial check-in with my spouse or accountability partner to ensure we stay on track with our financial vision.

SMART Financial Breakthrough Goal Example

Goal: Increase savings and reduce debt to achieve greater financial stability.
• Specific: I want to save $5,000 and pay off $2,000 in debt within the next 12 months.
• Measurable: I will save $417 per month and make extra payments of $167 toward my debt each month.
• Achievable: I will adjust my budget, cut unnecessary expenses, and increase income by offering consulting services twice a month.
• Relevant: Becoming debt-free and growing my savings aligns with my goal of financial freedom and being a better steward of my resources.
• Time-bound: I will achieve this goal in 12 months, reviewing my progress every three months.

Financial Breakthrough Requires Strategy and Stewardship

God gives us the ability to produce wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18), but He also calls us to be wise stewards. Financial breakthrough isn’t just about waiting for a miracle—it’s about preparing for it. By being SMART with our financial goals, we position ourselves for growth, stability, and greater impact. Let’s be intentional and walk in the breakthrough God has already provided!

What financial goal will you apply the SMART strategy to this year?