The concept of the absence of God in planning is a theme that emerges in various passages of the Bible, highlighting the importance of seeking divine guidance and wisdom in human endeavors. This theme underscores the futility and potential peril of making plans without acknowledging God's sovereignty and will.

Biblical Warnings Against Excluding God

The Bible provides several admonitions against the exclusion of God in planning. One of the most direct warnings is found in the Epistle of James. James 4:13-15 states, "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.'" This passage emphasizes the uncertainty of life and the necessity of submitting one's plans to the will of God.

Old Testament Insights

The Old Testament also provides insights into the consequences of planning without God. In the book of Proverbs, the wisdom literature frequently contrasts human understanding with divine wisdom. Proverbs 16:9 declares, "A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." This verse highlights the ultimate authority of God over human intentions and the need for reliance on His guidance.

The account of the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11:1-9 serves as a narrative example of the dangers of human ambition devoid of divine consultation. The people sought to build a tower to the heavens to make a name for themselves, disregarding God's will. As a result, God confused their language and scattered them across the earth, demonstrating the futility of plans made in defiance of divine authority.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself teaches about the importance of aligning one's plans with God's purposes. In the parable of the rich fool, found in Luke 12:16-21, Jesus tells of a man who planned to store up his wealth without regard for God. The man said to himself, "You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink, and be merry." But God said to him, "You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?" (Luke 12:19-20). This parable illustrates the folly of self-reliance and the importance of being "rich toward God" (Luke 12:21).

Dependence on God in Planning

The Bible encourages believers to seek God's guidance in all aspects of life. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "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." This passage calls for a wholehearted trust in God, recognizing His wisdom and direction as superior to human understanding.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often expressed his dependence on God's will for his plans. In 1 Corinthians 16:7 , he writes, "For I do not want to see you now only in passing; I hope to spend some time with you, if the Lord permits." Paul's acknowledgment of God's sovereignty over his travel plans serves as a model for believers to submit their intentions to God's will.

Conclusion

The absence of God in planning is a cautionary theme throughout Scripture, urging believers to seek divine guidance and submit their plans to the will of God. By acknowledging God's sovereignty and wisdom, believers can align their endeavors with His purposes, ensuring that their plans are not only successful but also pleasing to Him.