Proverb 21.5
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
Scripture admonishes us to be intentional and purposeful, not impulsive and sloppy. This verse tells us to be strategic. More specifically, this verse tells to be diligent in our approach to life. We are to plan our work, and then work our plan. The way of the kingdom of God is to think first, act second.
Invest the time to plan before you take action. If you act rashly and impulsively, you will cause problems. The strategic approach of a wise Christian is the powerful combination of:
- Planning: evaluate, set goals, develop a plan of action.
- Principles: know what the word of God teaches.
- Prayer: seek the Lord’s insight and power.
- Process: follow the plan.
- Personal discipline: do the daily work the plan requires.
- Perseverance and patience: be relentless. Do what is necessary for as long as necessary. Give it time and trust God.
- People: make sure you seek the wisdom of wise people, and make sure you have the right people on your team.
People who are hasty act too quickly on the basis of impulse and habit. They don’t think. They don’t plan. They aren’t patient and persistent. They give up when it gets difficult. As a result, they fail to solve problems, and they fail to achieve goals.
Warning to Christians: Do not use “faith in the Lord” as an excuse for not planning. Far too many Christians fail to plan because they claim to “trust God” This is foolish, and it is not true faith. Trusting God includes wise and careful planning.
Be strategic. Be diligent. Trust God, plan with diligence, work the process.
More tomorrow …
