The Bible encourages us to plan for the future but also to trust in God’s guidance. It reminds us that while making plans is important, we should always be open to God’s will and be ready for things to change. Proverbs 16:9 tells us that we can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps. So, in essence, planning is good, but it should be held loosely, with an understanding that God is ultimately in control.
Want to dive deeper into this topic? Keep on reading! You’ll find out how the Bible beautifully balances the idea of planning and trusting in God.
What Does the Bible Say About Planning?
The Bible holds a lot of wisdom on various aspects of life, and planning is no exception. When it comes to planning, the Bible offers a balanced view, emphasizing the importance of preparing for the future while also trusting in God’s sovereignty.
In the Old Testament, we see examples of leaders who plan strategically, like Joseph, who stored grain during the seven years of plenty to prepare for the seven years of famine. This act of planning saved countless lives, including his own family. On the other hand, the Bible also contains stories of people who made plans without consulting God, leading to unfavorable outcomes.
The New Testament continues this theme. Jesus himself talks about counting the cost before starting a project in Luke 14:28-30. He highlights the importance of being thoughtful and planning ahead. However, He also teaches about the futility of worrying about the future in Matthew 6:34, reminding us to focus on today and trust God for tomorrow.
James, in his letter, provides a crucial perspective on planning. In James 4:13-15, he warns against arrogance in making plans without considering God’s will. He encourages believers to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” This is a clear reminder that our plans should always be submitted to God’s sovereign will.
From all these examples, it’s evident that planning is encouraged in the Bible. However, it should be done with humility, recognizing that God is in control and that our plans may not always align with His. It’s a delicate balance between making wise preparations for the future and trusting in God’s guidance and provision.
Bible Verses About Planning
- Proverbs 16:9: “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
- Luke 14:28-30: “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’”
- Matthew 6:34: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
- James 4:13-15: “Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.'”
- Proverbs 21:5: “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.”
- Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
- Proverbs 27:1: “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.”
- Proverbs 6:6-8: “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.”
- Philippians 4:6: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
- Proverbs 19:21: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
In wrapping up our exploration of what the Bible says about planning, it’s clear that Scripture offers a balanced and wise perspective. The Bible neither discourages planning nor promotes a laissez-faire attitude towards the future. Instead, it encourages us to plan diligently and wisely, while maintaining a humble and trusting heart towards God.
The stories and teachings from both the Old and New Testaments highlight the importance of planning and being prepared. At the same time, they remind us that our plans are not the final word. God is sovereign, and His purposes will ultimately prevail.
So, what’s the takeaway? Plan for the future, be diligent and wise, but hold your plans loosely. Trust in God, knowing that He is in control and His plans for you are good. Remember, while we plan our paths, it is the Lord who establishes our steps.
As you go about your planning, keep this biblical wisdom in mind, and you’ll find a fulfilling balance between preparation for the future and trust in the divine.