Wisdom and Planning

Sermon Introduction

Planning is necessary for both progress and survival. Without planning, the percentage of both progress and survival dramatically goes down. Such is especially true for nations, yet equally valid for all organizations. One may argue that it is also applicable to families and individuals. There are many intricacies to planning. However, we do not have the time to investigate these intricacies. Yet we allotted time to discuss a few wise sayings on planning. Given its importance, we should learn to plan wisely and execute our plan. As believers and as a church, we need to anchor on the wisdom of Scripture whenever we plan.

Dr. Ed Pilapil Jr.
Senior Pastor

Proverbs 21:5, 15:22, 19:21, 21:31 ESV

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

22 Without counsel plans fail,
but with many advisers they succeed.

21 Many are the plans in the mind of a man,
but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.

31 The horse is made ready for the day of battle,
but the victory belongs to the Lord.

Notes

Planning is necessary for both progress and survival. Without planning, the percentage of both progress and survival dramatically goes down. Such is especially true for nations, yet equally valid for all organizations. One may argue that it is also applicable to families and individuals. There are many intricacies to planning. However, we do not have the time to investigate these intricacies. Yet we allotted time to discuss a few wise sayings on planning. Given its importance, we should learn to plan wisely and execute our plan. As believers and as a church, we need to anchor on the wisdom of Scripture whenever we plan.

1. Diligence leads to abundance, according to the proverb. Yet we observe that the diligent has plans. Thus, it is imperative to have a plan and to be diligent. Yet, surprisingly, the opposite of diligence is haste, which leads to poverty.

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

2. Some people like to do things independently, and they may have a good reason for it. However, it is wise to heed wisdom from Proverbs when it comes to planning. Without wise advice, a plan fails. But the opposite is true (15:22).
   
   22 Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.
   

3. Once upon a time, the abundance of horses and chariots determined military might. Thus, armies prepared them well. However, wisdom believes that deliverance comes from the Lord, not horses (21:21). Thus, men should understand that God’s purpose always prevails (19:21).
   31 The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but the victory belongs to the LORD.
   21 Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.

Application

1. Let us avoid rushing into things with a narrow mind. The possible outcome is poverty or the loss of wealth. But, on the other hand, let us develop sharper minds and decisiveness. Of course, let us add consistency and commitment. The outcome is abundance.

2. No one knows everything; therefore, it is wise to gain more perspective. How may we gain more perspective? We may consult the knowledgeable through conversations, or we may do research.

3. Let us prepare ourselves, our family members, and our church community to make a difference in the world. Let us gear up for holistic success. Let us prepare our present and future assets.
   Yet let us always trust in the Lord and not in our capabilities because He gives the victory, and He deserves all the glory. As a church, we aim to reach 1000 Growth Groups in 2030. We will plan, and we will prepare the assets. But we will trust the Lord for the grace to succeed.

Reflection & Discussion

1. What does the word diligent imply?

2. What does the word hasty imply?

3. Why do we need many counselors/advisers?

4. Why should we trust in the Lord despite planning and preparation?