Planning With The Mind Of Christ

 

Therefore, when I was planning this, did I do it lightly?

Or the things I plan, do I plan according to the flesh, that with me there should be Yes, Yes, and No, No?  

But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No.

 

2 Corinthians 1:17-18

 

Paul was discussing his plans to come to the church at Corinth, and was acknowledging the serious nature of his trip and informing the Corinthians that he did not flippantly come to this decision to visit them. It was a matter that had been given serious prayer, not one made in the spur of the moment.

 

The true Greek words meti ara that introduce the question Paul speaks of in the in 2 Corinthians 1:17, calls for an indignant, negative answer. Paul was saying in effect that,

 

"Was I vacillating when I intended to do this? No way!"

 

He was no shifty opportunist—shallow, fickle, or frivolous liar. And most of all he did not purpose according to the flesh. 

 

Planning from God's view is a process.  

 

It isn't merely an exercise in reason and analysis, but it requires entering into the mind of Christ together with our minds to determine which course to take. We have an uncanny ability to make decisions based on our own needs and wants. However, God desires that we seek Him to know His plans for us.

 

Even when our circumstances change our plans from what we had anticipated, our focus is to remain on God and our heart attitude should not waver. We see this demonstrated in the early life of David. David was a skilled warrior who never lost a battle and he consulted God on every decision. He knew the results of the battle rested in God's hand.

 

For effective planning become quiet before God.

 

So, if David was to gain victory, he had to know God's mind on the matter. Sometimes this requires more time given to the process in order to hear His voice. Sometimes it may even require fasting and extended prayer time—becoming quiet before God.

Are you a man or woman who makes decisions based on God's purposes for your life?

 

Do you take every major decision and put it before the throne to determine God's mind on the matter?

 

If not take some time to consider your ways and make the necessary changes as you ask God to lead you in all your planning—that means everything!