Keep your mission simple and clearly defined. With a well-defined mission statement, you should be on your way to meeting your objectives. Except that sometimes we miss it. Taking actions that are not in line with your stated mission leads to failure. On the other hand, sometimes one starts well on the path, but then messes things up by giving room to greed and pride. You also have people who start off simple and on-point, only to complicate the mission by introducing new objectives that contradict the mission. It is easier to lose sight of your mission than you’re thinking.
Many companies, ministries, and organizations falter when they lose sight of their mission. Deviating from the mission is a path to failure. Proverbs 4:25-27 advises, “Let your eyes look directly forward, and your gaze be straight before you. Ponder the path of your feet; then all your ways will be sure. Do not swerve to the right or to the left; turn your foot away from evil.” Consider the story of Enron, one of the largest corporate frauds in history. A company whose mission was once centered on core values such as integrity, communication, respect, and excellence. The company crashed as their leaders began to compromise on their values.
In conclusion, maintaining a steadfast course on your mission requires a keen awareness of your actions and a receptiveness to feedback. Proverbs 15:31 advises that those who listen to constructive criticism will be at home among the wise. Consider the example of King Uzziah in 2 Chronicles 26. His reign thrived while he sought wise counsel from Zechariah. However, when pride clouded his judgment, he deviated from the mission, leading to disastrous consequences. Just as positive feedback kept Uzziah on track, you must welcome constructive feedback to ensure you stay on track and avoid the pitfalls that would divert you from your mission.
