Plans

The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.

Proverbs 21:5


Proverbs are often general truths which aren't necessarily the case 100% of the time. This is one example. Sometimes diligent plans fail because of external circumstances. But as a general rule, if you are diligent, you will do well.


Yesterday's devotional about God being the only one whose plans are sure to prevail doesn't mean that we shouldn't plan. It just means that we have to be flexible in our plans. I met a missionary who was all set to go to India as a nurse when he was told he wasn't wanted. So he went to Ethiopia instead! He diligently planned to be a missionary nurse, and God fulfilled his plan, just not in the way he expected.


Proverbs often describe two sides of the same coin, and this one is no exception. Those who fail to plan, plan to fail. If we just rush into decisions without planning and prayer, we're setting ourselves up for failure. Some act first and think later, but that is not how we should be. Impulsivity is not wisdom.


Proverbs usually describes life for unbelievers and believers alike, and this one is the case as well. But believers have the added advantage of committing our plans to the Lord, in the knowledge that he will establish our steps. Even if we stumble on the way, he will always look after and provide for us.


"Lord, help me to be diligent in my plans, preparations, and prayers for the future. Thank you for your abundant provision; may I be generous with it. Forgive me for times I'm hasty, and please give me enough for me to meet my needs and give to others too. In Jesus' name, amen"


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