Proverbs 16:9 (NKJV)
A man’s heart plans his way: but the Lord directs his steps.
Often it has been stated that when we fail to plan, we plan to fail. As much as there seems to be some fact in that statement, it is essential to establish that planning in itself is not all that is needed for success to be achieved in life or destiny. Planning is important, but we need to understand that there are other factors that affect and enable our plans to work out perfectly well.
It is of God we plan; however, we must plan:
- With the understanding that God must be involved in our planning. The writer of James spoke about those who plan without God’s involvement and the consequences of it. He established that life (of which without it no plan can come to fruition) is a gift from God and planning without the source of life is like setting out on a journey without what it will take you to get to your destination. Effective planning is God-centric. Meaning that it acknowledges God. It involves God’s purposes. It is open to God’s timing. It is Truth based. It is undeniably focused on Divine provisions for execution.So, when we plan outside of God, we have planned to fail. That is the correct statement.
- Planning must be both realistic and practical. When we plan without wisdom and practical understanding of how things work, we position ourselves to fail, and we cannot afford to fail. Therefore, we must plan in wisdom and practical understanding.
- Planning must be involving others who are key stakeholders of our lives, especially the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, as well as destiny friends, mentors, spiritual authorities, and well-meaning family members. These stakeholders ensure that we are not planning without wise counsel. For by wise counsel, wars are won, and plans are executed.
- Planning requires the understanding and application of the needed skills and talents for the realization of our plan. Meaning, you must know and ask yourself, do I have the skills and talents necessary to see this plan to completion? Do I have what it takes to implement my plans? Or am I waiting on external forces alone to see my plan come to pass? These are planning questions that must be answered before you set out to execute any plan.
- Planning requires an understanding of times and seasons. Those who plan ignorantly of this factor will fail before they start because times and seasons are in the hands of God. We must plan with God and with us being open to His times and seasons.
How do I know my plan is working or not working?
- Your plan is working when the result of it brings glory to God. And it is not just the realization of a plan to the believer that is a success, but when such realization brings glory to God.
- Your plan is not working when it is void of divine involvement. Thus, you lack the commitment of God to your plan. How do I know, you may ask? Do you enjoy the comfort and peace of God even when you are struggling in executing the plan? If the answer is no. Then that plan is not working.
Struggling in the realization of your plan doesn’t mean it is a bad plan, but it becomes an indicator when or if you lack complete peace and no divine assurance amid your struggle. So, plan but engage in planning with these nuggets, and you will succeed. You are blessed and highly favored.