Tuesday, January 1, 2019

Planning Ahead


Image result for planning
Everyone makes plans.  Some people prefer to “let life happen” or “shoot from the hip” and make very few plans.  Some prefer to use their calendar or planner to the fullest and live an “agenda-driven” life.  Some of us think through things for days, weeks, or even months before making a decision or taking action; others of us are quick to decide and act.  Both too little planning as well as too much planning can be detrimental.  So how should we plan?

Think on this:  In Proverbs 19:21, it is written: "Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails."

With today’s technological advances, there is no lack of planning tools:  computers; desk planners;  calendars on our phones and iPads; even simple "To Do" notepads are all within our easy reach.  These devises, apps, etc. can help us record in writing, prioritize, and stay on track with our plans.  Any of these tools can be a tremendous asset to us as long as we remember that ultimately only the plans of God and His purposes for our lives will prevail.

The often quoted verse Jeremiah 29:11 reveals the following: “‘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.’”  But the two verses that follow are not quoted as often, but should be because they hold the key to understanding what plans God has for us: “Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

Today is first day of a new year.  Each of us has been given a clean slate, a fresh start.  What dreams do we hope come true in our lives in 2019?  What goals do we hope to achieve?  What do we resolve to do differently this year?  As we reflect on the past, present, and future of our lives, remember the key to success in 2019.  Before we set goals for ourselves... before we plan what we want to do or not do differently this year... before we make our resolutions, let us do so only after praying, calling on the Lord, and seeking His will, His plans for our lives in this new year.  After all, Father Knows Best!