Proper Plans

     What  will  you  do  with  your life during the new year that is almost here?  None of us can answer that

question  with  certainty.   Many variables exist, most of which we cannot control at all.  We can, however,

consider our ways (Haggai 1:5,6) and make discreet plans and preparations to meet our God (Amos 4:12),

for that meeting is one of the few certain things in our future (Hebrews 9:27).

     Meanwhile,  we  continue  our  journey  through  this  earthly  life,  and  provisions  must  be  made  for  the

uncertain days ahead.  All plans and assertions must be qualified in our minds and in our words: “If the

Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that” (James 4:15).  Failure to perceive and to accept with humility

the  fact  of  God’s sovereign determinations is the height of arrogance and folly (James 4:16).  Still, wise

people  do  plan  for  the  eventualities  of  this  life  (Proverbs  10:5),  even  as  they  make  the  long-range

preparations that are essential to reaching the goal of eternal life (Romans 2:6,7).  As we seek to prosper,

we must remember that it is God Who blesses us (Deuteronomy 8:18; Psalm 1); and our plans must first

be a determination to be rich toward God (Luke 12:16-21).

     “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10), and those who would be rich toward

God must seek to please Him in God’s own way.  His word tells us how to obey Him in offering those gifts

that are pleasing to Him (Matthew 7:21; Romans 12:1,2).  He has shown us what is good (Micah 6:8).  We

cannot improve upon true and faithful obedience.  Remember Nadab and Abihu and Uzzah.  Let us rejoice

in  the  opportunity  to  obey  Him.    Then  our  days will be filled with goodness, regardless of the changing

events  of  this  life  and  the length of our stay here.  “Blessed are those who do His commandments, that

they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter through the gates into the city” (Revelation 22:14).

  Gilbert Alexander

  Beulah Church of Christ

  (256) 232-1050