Profit in Planning – Proverbs in Practice
There’s benefit in making plans, former procrastinators, even if you cannot carry them out. Thinking things through, seeing possibilities, ideas, perspectives, ways of approach – these are helpful whether or not you get to go from A to Z the way you originally intended. Planning works our brains and opens our minds to possibilities.
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” Proverbs 21:5.
Eisenhower is sometimes credited with saying that plans are of little use, but planning is indispensable. He knew the value of exercising the mind to anticipate and deal with possibilities.
The diligent man deliberates – thinks about things, ponders them. He doesn’t just get an idea and jump on it, he considers the wisdom of it. Is this advisable? What are the possible outcomes? He is likely to seek counsel. Then he acts. Because of the time and effort he invests in thinking, what he chooses to do often results in benefit for him.
The fellow who hurriedly decides on a course of action may do so because he is pressed for time or because he chooses not to take the time to consider all angles. His quick decision tends to result in lack of benefit. He didn’t anticipate or deal with all he should have. He comes up short.
We want the things we purpose and imagine to be profitable for us. So, it’s wise to set aside time to think, discuss, and seek counsel. Sometimes this isn’t possible and we must make a decision in a short time with less information than we’d like. But if our habit is to give thoughtful consideration, then when we must decide quickly, our decision is informed by our past deliberations.
Some say “I don’t have time to plan.” They rush into their day without determining how they can best do things. This wastes time and saps energy. Take a few moments before the week begins and at the start of each day to deconflict appointments, formulate your approach to errands, check on meal prep, and carve out time for rest and fun.
Some say, “I follow the Holy Spirit instead of planning.” Planning under the guidance of the Holy Spirit is the way to do it. Pray and plan. Luke 14:28 reminds us this is the responsible way. Stay attuned to Him, and change if He so prompts.
A friend was delighted when she realized she could plan her route for errand running. She avoided doubling back and forth, and accomplished her work smoothly in less time by planning the most efficient path. This is a thumbnail sketch of how thinking first brings profit.
My husband says “Thinking takes time.” Right. Planning pays off.
When will you sit and think about something that requires your thoughtful attention?
