Count the Cost, Embrace the Value, Rejoice in the Win

Last year, I completed my Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential with the International Coaching Federation. To achieve ACC, you commit to a rigorous process that includes academic studies, logging 100+ coaching hours, submitting recorded sessions, and passing an exam. But the process doesn’t stop there. In many ways, it’s just the beginning, an invitation into ongoing professional development and continued growth as a coach.

I’m convinced that when we embark on any new goal, we are more likely to succeed if we spend time reflecting and evaluating before devising strategies to execute. As a coach who believes in helping clients develop a listening ear for what God is speaking so they can gain momentum, I often return to Scripture for practical application. Let’s start there.

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it—lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him.” – Luke 14:28-29 (NKJV)

Here, Jesus instructs his followers to count the cost—to evaluate the full expense of the venture.

In this passage, Jesus calls people to follow Him, but He makes it clear that discipleship requires commitment. His goal was not just to gather followers but to invite them into a transformed life of love and purpose. Every choice, from healing a blind man to touching a child, a mother-in-law, or calling disciples and providing for multitudes, was made out of love. Jesus knew His why. His mission was rooted in obedience to the Father, revealing the love of God, and ultimately redeeming humanity through the cross. This was at the heart of every decision He made.

Questions to Help You Count the Cost When Clarifying Vision and Goals:

• Where exactly do I want to go? What does the end goal look like?

• What disciplines do I need to develop to help me move forward?

• What resources do I need?

• What safeguards will I put in place if discouragement comes?

• What am I giving up to obtain this dream?

• If I choose to stay where I am now, what will that cost me?

Finding the Value

None of us willingly pay a price for something that isn’t valuable. But sometimes, we forget the meaning behind what we’re doing when faced with daunting tasks. In my own pursuit of ACC credentials, I had to remind myself of my why and its value. Why was the sacrifice of giving up personal time for studies important? Because it would allow me to help more people reach their goals and live out their God-given purpose. It would also give me greater insight into connecting with my own purpose. And when I’m operating in my purpose and living authentically, I naturally show up better in my relationships. These are things I want to cultivate.

Returning to a biblical framework, Jesus provides another example in Mark 8:36-37, where He challenges His followers to consider the true value of their pursuits:

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” – Mark 8:36-37 (NKJV)

Value Questions:

• Are the motives of my heart pure? Are they worth championing?

• What is the real driver behind this decision?

• Am I doing this out of people-pleasing? Could this lead to resentment?

• In this situation, what might I regret doing or not doing?

Once you’ve dug deeper and evaluated the necessary commitment and importance, you’re on your way. The real work begins in execution. Be sure to establish a support system, whether through a coach, accountability partner, mentor, consultant, or another trusted source. And, of course, bring your plans, questions, and desires to God, and stay open to how He leads, redirects, or invites you to choose. Practice self-compassion, kindness, and patience when plans don’t go your way. A delay or detour does not mean God is absent. Often, He is at work in ways we cannot yet see.

Celebration Increases Appreciation

In Luke 15, Jesus emphasizes God’s heart for the lost by associating with those considered outsiders by religious leaders. He knew the price He would pay, yet He had no problem challenging their exclusionary mentality because He valued people despite the ridicule.

To illustrate this, He shares:

“What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing.” – Luke 15:4-5 (NKJV)

Immediately after this story, Jesus shares another parable about a lost coin, followed by a celebration, and then the story of the wayward son returning to a joyful feast.

While these parables primarily illustrate God’s joy in redeeming sinners, they also demonstrate another principle—celebration is the act of pausing from activity to give thanks for what God has accomplished. Taking time to celebrate deepens our roots and provides an opportunity to reflect positively.

As you define and redefine goals, remember to count the cost, understand the value, and celebrate the wins.

What are you dreaming up? Are you ready to put pen to paper and begin ?