monthly focus ~ plans that unlock blessings

PLANS THAT UNLOCK BLESSINGS

“God doesn’t just bless us for showing up.”

An EBM missionary recently made that observation in his ministry.  He has learned the value of strategic planning in ministry. 

Planning is an imperative in effective ministry.  Jesus’ words in Matthew 7 about the wise man and the foolish man’s decisions as they built their houses.  This story illustrates how planning can make the difference in circumstances of life. 

While planning is imperative, it is not supreme.  James reminds us that we must realize that God is in total control of all man’s efforts.  Planning for ministry must always be balanced with understanding.  The phrase, “if the Lord wills” is not a thoughtless “Christian cliché” but rather a humble acknowledgement that God can intervene and control however He wishes, and that is OK. 

As missionaries seek God’s face for wisdom in setting vision and plans for ministry on their fields, they can confidently and diligently follow a plan of action, knowing that God can intervene at any moment to refine or totally change those plans for His glory.  Planning—living and doing God’s work, “if God wills,” is the key to God’s Blessing.