As we look forward to the start of a new calendar year, many of us usually want to look back and appreciate the past. How was 2023 for you? Was it a time of excitement, success and achievement, a difficult year full of challenges and adversity, or a combination of both?
Over the years, I have been in the habit of reflecting on the past year, noting the ups and downs, the joyful moments and the times of sadness or despondency. I believe that this is a beneficial opportunity to smile again at happy events and achievements; remember mistakes and learn from them; and say goodbye to missed opportunities. Even when put in perspective, they can be a reason to “rejoice always,” as the Apostle Paul encourages us to do in 1 Thessalonians 5:16.
Looking back on the past can be helpful, but dwelling on it for too long can be destructive. As the Apostle Paul wrote: “...I do not count myself to have attained; But one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). Paul was not unconscious of his sad past, but he decided that the best way to serve the Lord was to remain forward-thinking in both thought and mission.
As we prepare for the new year, hoping for either a new beginning or a continuation of what has been going well, let us embrace the wisdom the Bible offers on how best to proceed.
Plan with anticipation, but not with anxiety. When planning, we sometimes worry: “What if this happens?” or “What if this doesn’t happen?” This anxiety can lead to what some call “analysis paralysis.” Jesus Christ encouraged His followers to trust in God's provision rather than become overwhelmed by worry. “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will wear. Is not the soul more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap, nor gather into barns; and your Father in heaven feeds them. Aren't you much better than them? And which of you, by caring, can add even one cubit to his height?” (Matthew 6:25-27).
Plan with the right priorities. The planning process often involves determining what is most important and achieving the best, keeping everything else in proper perspective. Because we trust God to take care of everything we need—people, resources, opportunities—it is important to put Him first in our thoughts, relying on Him to guide our steps and decisions. “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). “Commit your works to the Lord, and your undertakings will be accomplished” (Proverbs 16:3).
Plan for the unexpected. The problem is that circumstances do not always coincide with what we planned. Some doors of opportunity slam shut, others open unexpectedly. Trusting in the Lord's sovereign guidance helps relieve tension. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Plan in consultation with others. When we plan, relying only on our own ideas and knowledge, we run the risk of not recognizing the flaw in our thinking or the potential problems we may encounter. Trusted advisors can help us refine our ideas and help us avoid serious errors in judgment. “Without counsel, enterprises will fail, but with many advisers they will succeed” (Proverbs 15:22).
© 2023. Robert J. Tamasi wrote Market Ambassadors: The Continuing Legacy of CBMC Evangelism and Discipleship; Business at its Best: Timeless Proverbial Wisdom for Today's Workplace; Finding Life with a Shepherd's Heart, co-authored with Ken Johnson; and The Heart of Mentoring, co-authored with David A. Stoddard. Bob's bi-weekly blog: www.bobtamasy.blogspot.com.
Questions for reflection/discussion
NOTE. If you have a Bible and want to read more, consider the following passages: Psalm 37:3-7; Proverbs 11:14, 16:9, 19:20; Philippians 4:6-7; Colossians 3:17,23-24.
Difficult task
Involving God in the planning process can seem daunting, especially if you haven't done it before. It would be helpful to review Bible passages related to planning, leadership, and decision making. It's also helpful to have one or more friends you trust who will reinforce and suggest important decisions in the plans you make. A group of trusted advisors or young professionals who share your values can be especially helpful. If there are CBMC representatives in your area, they can help you join such a group.
