Wise planning

‘Any enterprise is built by wise planning, becomes strong through common sense and profits wonderfully by keeping abreast with the facts’ (Proverbs 24:3-4).

‘If the last few years have taught us anything, it's this: jobs end and companies close; stocks fall and banks fail. That doesn't mean you should avoid planning, investing or working. No, it just means after you've done all that wisdom demands; trust in nothing but God! He's your provider, your protector, and the giver of every good income-producing idea you'll ever have’ (Jentezen Franklin)

“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” Although you won’t find it put just that way in the Bible, you will find many stories of both wise and unwise planning. Planning is part of all of our lives. The only question is, if in all our planning, we ever consult God’s perfect and eternal plan. The Bible teaches that, God is a God of both purpose and planning. In the book of Genesis we learn that, God had a purpose and He had a time table or plan to fulfill that purpose within six days. God’s purpose is to draw all humanity to Himself through Christ, and He has had a plan from eternity past till now, to fulfill that purpose (Rev 13:18).   

God has a unique purpose for every individual, He told Jeremiah that, before he was a clot of blood in his mothers womb He new him and He had a purpose for him (Jer 1:5). Like a manufacturer manufactures a car with a function or purpose for each part of the car, so does our God have a purpose for each of us (Rom 8:28). Failure to plan wisely leads to failure in fulfilling God’s purpose for ones life. ‘Any enterprise is built by wise planning…’ (Prov 24:3). This scripture is a master key for success. It is interesting to note that, many unbelievers and circular companies have been made successful through the application of this scripture. 

However, to be successful as a Christian you just don’t make your plans; you need to seek the guidance of God. This is because; your plan has to be in line with God’s purpose for your life. As a Christian, you save your self a lot of trouble if you seek God’s direction before making any plans ( Prov 3:5-6). There can be nothing like success outside God’s purpose and plan. Fulfilling God’s purpose and plan for your life is what brings fulfillment in life. God’s word lights your way, giving directions for each step (‘to your feet’) and giving wisdom for long range plans (‘to your path’) Psalm 119:105.

After seeking the face of God, your plans can be divided into long term plans and short term plans. The short term plans are supposed to be a time table of what to do, to fulfill the long term plans. Every one needs long term and short term plans in marriage, finances, education, ministry, etc. God will bless your plan; if you have one for Him to bless. Do you?

‘Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight’ (Prov 3:5-6).

The next study is on ‘the keys to effective planning’.