Strategic Planning

Strategic planning is a process often employed by individuals, organizations, and communities to set goals, determine actions to achieve those goals, and mobilize resources to execute the actions. In a biblical context, strategic planning can be seen in various narratives where leaders and individuals make plans to achieve specific outcomes. However, the Bible provides guidance on how such planning should be approached, emphasizing the importance of aligning human plans with God's will.

Proverbs 16:9 states, "A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." This verse highlights the balance between human initiative and divine sovereignty. While it is prudent to plan, believers are reminded that ultimate success and direction come from God. James 4:13-15 further advises, "Come now, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business, and make a profit.' 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 the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.'"

The Bible does not discourage planning but encourages plans to be made with humility and dependence on God. Nehemiah is a biblical example of strategic planning. When he heard about the broken walls of Jerusalem, he prayed, fasted, and then carefully planned the rebuilding process (Nehemiah 1-2). His plans were successful because they were rooted in prayer and aligned with God's purpose.

Godly Wisdom

Godly wisdom is a recurring theme in Scripture, often contrasted with human wisdom. It is characterized by a deep reverence for God and a commitment to living according to His principles. Proverbs 9:10 declares, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This wisdom is not merely intellectual but is practical and moral, guiding believers in making decisions that honor God.

James 3:17 describes godly wisdom as "first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere." This wisdom is marked by qualities that reflect the character of God and the fruit of the Spirit. It is not self-seeking or ambitious but seeks the welfare of others and the glory of God.

The Bible presents Solomon as a paragon of godly wisdom. When offered anything by God, Solomon chose wisdom to govern the people effectively (1 Kings 3:5-12). His request pleased God, who granted him unparalleled wisdom and understanding. However, Solomon's later life also serves as a cautionary tale, as he strayed from godly wisdom by turning to idolatry and foreign alliances, demonstrating that wisdom must be continually sought and applied.

Interplay Between Strategic Planning and Godly Wisdom

The interplay between strategic planning and godly wisdom is evident throughout Scripture. While strategic planning involves human effort and foresight, godly wisdom ensures that such plans are grounded in divine truth and righteousness. Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance in their planning, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6 : "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

The Apostle Paul exemplifies this balance in his missionary journeys. He made plans to visit various churches and spread the Gospel, yet he remained sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading, as seen in Acts 16:6-10, where the Spirit redirected his path to Macedonia. This demonstrates that while strategic planning is valuable, it must be flexible and responsive to God's direction.

In summary, strategic planning and godly wisdom are not mutually exclusive but are complementary when approached with a heart surrendered to God. Believers are called to plan diligently while seeking and applying godly wisdom, ensuring that their endeavors align with God's purposes and bring Him glory.