Introduction

Strategic action in God's plan refers to the deliberate and purposeful steps taken by God and His followers to fulfill divine purposes throughout biblical history. This concept underscores the belief that God orchestrates events and guides His people with intentionality to achieve His ultimate will. The Bible provides numerous examples of strategic actions that demonstrate God's sovereignty, wisdom, and foresight.

Old Testament Examples

1. Joseph in Egypt: One of the most compelling examples of strategic action is the account of Joseph. Sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph eventually rises to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. His position allows him to save his family and many others from famine. Joseph himself acknowledges God's strategic plan in Genesis 50:20 : "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people."

2. Moses and the Exodus: The deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt is another instance of strategic action. God calls Moses to lead His people out of bondage, equipping him with signs and wonders to confront Pharaoh. The plagues and the parting of the Red Sea are strategic acts that demonstrate God's power and purpose. Exodus 9:16 states, "But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display My power in you and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth."

3. David and Goliath: The encounter between David and Goliath is a strategic moment in Israel's history. David's victory over the Philistine giant is not just a display of personal bravery but a pivotal event that establishes David's future kingship and God's favor upon him. 1 Samuel 17:45-47 highlights David's reliance on God's strategy: "David said to the Philistine, 'You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.'"

New Testament Examples

1. The Birth of Jesus: The incarnation of Christ is the ultimate strategic action in God's redemptive plan. The timing, location, and circumstances of Jesus' birth fulfill numerous Old Testament prophecies, demonstrating God's meticulous planning. Galatians 4:4-5 reflects this divine strategy: "But when the time had fully come, God sent His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive our adoption as sons."

2. The Ministry of Jesus: Jesus' earthly ministry is marked by strategic actions that reveal the Kingdom of God. His choice of disciples, parables, miracles, and confrontations with religious leaders are all purposeful. In John 4:34 , Jesus articulates His mission: "Jesus said to them, 'My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work.'"

3. The Great Commission: Before His ascension, Jesus gives His disciples the Great Commission, a strategic directive to spread the Gospel to all nations. This command sets the stage for the global expansion of Christianity. Matthew 28:19-20 records this mandate: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you."

Strategic Action in the Early Church

The early church exemplifies strategic action through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The apostles' missionary journeys, the establishment of churches, and the writing of the New Testament epistles are all part of God's strategic plan to spread the Gospel. Acts 1:8 captures the essence of this mission: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Conclusion

Strategic action in God's plan is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, illustrating how God uses individuals, events, and circumstances to accomplish His divine purposes. These actions reveal God's sovereignty, wisdom, and love for humanity, encouraging believers to trust in His perfect plan.