Previously we considered excuses we might give to bypass the planning process centered on practical-sounding reasoning. Perhaps when pointed out to us, we’ll acknowledge that kind of thinking doesn’t align with God’s ways. When, however, our excuses for not planning sound spiritually motivated, we may need more convincing that our thinking is misguided.
Misguided Reasoning for Bypassing the Planning Process Though It Sounds Spiritual
Misguided reasoning often is based on half-truths. What we say could be true, making us feel our excuses are legitimate. As in anything we do, we must consider the whole counsel of God.
Excuse #1: It doesn’t matter how we do something as long as we love God. If we just focus on love, everything will take care of itself.
Love for God is indeed the greatest commandment. That command, however, comes with qualifications. We’re to love Him “with ALL your heart and with ALL your soul and with ALL your mind” (Matt. 22:37). Notice that we’re to love Him with all of our mind. God expects us to use our minds, not to merely coast through life, or to barrel through it. — “The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception.” (Prov. 14:8)
Excuse #2: We shouldn’t look for trouble. We should merely trust God and keep moving forward.
Even Jesus said “each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matt. 6:34). Just prior, however, Jesus said, “seek first his kingdom and his righteousness” (Matt. 6:33). Seeking is a striving after, not just laying back and waiting for something to happen. It’s about trusting God to provide for us as we seek after His will, not worrying. Jesus also spoke of counting the cost and sitting down to consider what to do before moving forward (Lk. 14:28-32). We plan to prevent problems, to avoid trouble. — “A prudent man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.” (Prov. 22:3)
Excuse #3: We have little control over what’s going to happen so planning is futile. We should get out of the way and let God have control.
Scripture does indicate that “in their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps” (Prov. 16:9). Yet, God encourages us to exercise wisdom and understanding in what we do. We’re told to “Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil” (Eph. 5:15-16). This suggests we take time to stop and think through what we do, to discern that which is the best course of action. — “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. (Prov. 24:3-4)
This doesn’t eliminate trust in God to have the final say. Rather, we look to God for His wisdom throughout the entire planning process. — “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. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil.” (Prov. 3:5-7)
For more about aligning with God in the planning process, go to: Strategic Planning