And what I’ve found is that the journey of overcoming doubt but believing anyway is an invitation to everyone. God has a plan for YOU. And turns out, His provision to fulfill your destiny might surprise you. It may not be all you want, but His promise is that it will exceed your wildest imaginations (Ephesians 3:20).

And this time of year, many of us that run a ministry, a business or a non-profit, set out with higher hopes and bigger dreams. If you are like me, you might put pen to paper to ensure those dreams happen. You put measurable steps in place to see the final destination come into view. And all of this action comes under the canopy of God’s amazing faithfulness to complete the work He has started. So this January, I want to give you ten scripture verses that can help you as you create the life you want–with the vehicle God has provided for you.

“Lord, in the morning you hear my voice. In the morning I lay it all out before you. Then I wait expectantly.” Psalm 5:3

This is the best way I know to be a Jesus-first girl, with a Jesus-first business. Start my day surrendered to Him and then walk it out with great expectation.

“No, dear brothers, I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God is calling us up to heaven because of what Christ Jesus did for us.” Philippians 3:13-14

We all want the final product, but we don’t always like the process. But the process is often a test of endurance. Anything worth having is uphill. It is in that climb that you become the person God intended you to be when you reach the destination. And the results will show themselves in the end.

“Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” 1 Timothy 6:12

This is life in the AND. This is where your ministry goes to the market place. Faith is integral in business. For those of us who are believers in Christ, it is essential that we lead with faith. This example will shine, revealing to non-believers what God has done for us.

“…Encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.” I Thessalonians 2:12

The is the inspiration to give God our best and trust him for the rest.

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-11

Being in business requires tenacity. Being an entrepreneur requires grit. We can make a lot happen in our businesses. But this is the reminder that we must remain God-dependent, not self-reliant.

“Those who answer before they listen are foolish and disgraceful.” Proverbs 18:13

Whatever your business model, the decision to be slow to speak and quicker to listen is always a key to success. For this high-powered, assertive, extrovert, this verse has brought tremendous empowerment as I am in the relationship business first and always.

“The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.” Psalm 37:23-24

I have always been so afraid to fail. This fear has often held me back from even trying at times. But this verse sets me free–free to fail, free to fly. I may have setbacks. I might face disappointment. But with Him, I will fail forward.

“You set a table for me right in front of my enemies. You bathe my head in oil; my cup is so full it spills over! Yes, goodness and faithful love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the Lord’s house as long as I live.” Psalm 23:5-6

Haters are gonna hate. But you build your business, and live your life, for the audience of One!

“I believe that the present suffering is nothing compared to the coming glory that is going to be revealed to us.” Romans 8:18

There is always a test in your testimony. Business is often about upfront sacrifice for long-term gain. Be confident that God knows the desires of your heart and will give you the win in His perfect time.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

I Googled around to discover this is proportedly the most commonly known scripture in the world. So I’m sure you’ve heard God has “a plan for you.” But did you notice the scripture actually says, “plans” (as in plural). He has a bunch of stuff cooking for you. And it’s all good. That means He has a plan for your business as well as every other area of your life. And this passage empowers you to trust. One day, one step, one benchmark in business at a time.

Don’t resist God’s call merely out of fear of man’s judgement or persecution. Obedience always leads to blessing! So let these scriptures sink in today. You may work like it all depends on you, but believe that the success of your business all depends on God. Because it does. And in Him, fear doesn’t stand a chance. He has overcome death. His power–His love–is an unconquerable force for good in your life. What more could you or your business ask for? All you have to do is follow to lead. All you have to do is follow HIS lead. And go get to work, because in Him, ALL things are possible!