Introduction
Planning can be defined as a set of intended actions for accomplishing important objectives. It sets the stage for the other management functions like organising, leading and controlling. Entering into a New Year comes with the common cliché of ‘new year resolutions’. Many people including Christians, however, forget about these resolutions after a short period into the New Year. Without a well thought out plan for our lives, we may leave our lives to chance. Also, we may not be ready when opportunities come our way because we have not prepared for those opportunities. Jesus Christ teaches us today to consider carefully our intended actions before taking steps to implement them. This study will focus on how we can turn our objectives for the year into very good plans.
Questions for Discussion
1. Why should planning be an essential part of our lives? Verses 28-29.
2. What are some of the factors you will consider in planning? Verses 31-32.
3. What are some of the factors that hinder us from planning?
4. What happens if we fail to plan? 5. How would you ensure that you achieve your resolutions?
Conclusion
Our study today reveals the need to have plans for our lives. In the parable, Jesus intimated that, without planning, we may be ridiculed or become unfruitful. Planning should not be done in isolation. As we learnt from our main text, series of consultations are needed for a successful plan. First, we need to consult God and then knowledgeable people in what we want to do. Others are mature Christians, family (e.g. spouses, parents, and children) and relevant literature. A good plan has a clear vision, objectives, actions or steps to be taken and time lines. In addition, we must have people who will hold us accountable to the objectives of our life plans. We need to take bold steps to plan for the year ahead, for it is said, ‘if you fail to plan, you plan to fail’. HAPPY NEW YEAR!