Proverbs on Planning

In his heart a man plans his course,
but the Lord determines his steps.
Proverbs 15:9 (NIV)

The Proverbs are loaded with nuggets of wisdom. Sometimes they are convenient, other times overwhelming. As I read today's chapter, verses about planning jump out. A few weeks back I determined to make in the next six months a determined effort to find something to which I can be wholeheartedly committed and do it for the next five years.

After several chance encounters, I decided upon education as my goal – that is, to become an elementary teacher. So, as I get going about my goal, I face this reminder in the Proverbs. It is sobering that I can make all of the plans, but step-by-step, it is the Lord who directs. Then I am faced with another reminder from the same chapter:

Pride goes before destruction,
a haughty spirit before a fall.
verse 18

Planning is a tricky balance. It can be tempting to over-estimate one's ambitions, to chase a dream or goal despite better judgment and its affect on others. Many "successful" people have alienated themselves for the sake of their goal. Likewise, others go free-spirited throughout life, riding the winds of emotion and convenience. Either of these can be a failure-bound, prideful path.

It's a balance of following the nudging of the Lord, my built-in desires, and the day-to-day experiences in charting my course and following the path. That leads to a great analogy: a ship (not these modern, engine driven ones, but the majestic ones with sails and oars) is at the mercy of the wind and waves. These natural forces act on her, driving her wherever they may lead. If not for a captain and crew following the stars and taming the ship to her determined destination, she would not likely get there. At times the sea is boisterous, churning up storm that can swallow the ship; other times she is dead still, smooth as glass, like a desert. The crew – experienced and hearty – drive the ship through these extremes to harbor.

Commit to the Lord whatever you do,
and your plans will succeed.
verse 3

Ambition and goals are not bad. In fact, they provide the map by which my ship is steered. Certainly, life throws unexpected turns my way. In the storms I batten down the hatches and draw back the sails to ride them out, and in the doldrums I row ahead toward my goal, however long they last. It is the captain behind the wheel who determines the success of the voyage. With the Lord as my captain – no one is more experienced or as qualified – and I following His lead in tending the ship, success is sure and the voyage worth it all.