Forethought

<<planning in advance>>

God sees the end from the beginning. The bringing of life and immortality through Jesus Christ was no afterthought. It was the forethought of God, the revealing of His glorious plan of grace designed before the foundation of the world.

Budgeting, seeking advice, feasibility studies and planning are wise steps before embarking on projects that require considerable investment in time, finance or effort. Forethought anticipates possible areas of concern and proactively makes suitable preparation; “If the owner of the house had known at what time the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into” (Lk 12:39).

Trust in the Lord, yet take appropriate action

In the parable of the wise bridesmaids who took extra oil, their foresight and precaution paid off, while those who didn't prepare missed out (Mt 25:1-13). Even the shrewd manager was commended for his prudence to make provision for his future (Lk 16:1-8).

“Plans fail for lack of counsel” so careful analysis of the facts prior to commencing something will ensure there are adequate resources and a strong likelihood of the goal being met, with no biblical principle or command being violated (Prov 15:22; Lk 14:28-32). What is the possible outcome or consequence of the proposed action; will it helpful to others and glorifying to God?

Clearly identify your desired goals. This gives a target to aim for, enabling strategies
to be applied to bring it about. In Babylon, Daniel thought through the options, and so could present a valid alternative solution that would not compromise his convictions (Dan 1:8,12,13). Without a specific goal, definite plans and motivation to implement the

In order to reap a harvest, the seeds must be planted

required measures you will just drift, carried along by various impulses and fads, without accomplishing what you were born for. So know what you want and pay the price to make it a reality. Define what you want to reap and sow the seeds accordingly.

Jesus said becoming His disciple requires giving up everything we have for Him in voluntary submission – being determined and dedicated to continue when the initial enthusiasm has gone (Lk 9:23,62). Some of the costs, struggles and hardships we may be able to anticipate in advance, others ‘appear’ in the heat of the battle, and require a strong faith in God and steadfast character to pull us through. However, be assured whatever we give up for God will not go unrewarded. “No one who has left…will fail to receive…and in the age to come, eternal life” (1 Sam 2:30; Mk 10:28-30).

Many people make preparation for this life, putting a financial nest egg away for retirement and the benefit of their children but have they prepared for the next? As Christians, we know the significance of making provision for the next, recognizing without Jesus as Saviour we won’t experience eternal life. It is our responsibility to share Jesus with the lost, to awaken them to the tragedy of such a Christ-less

Make sensible provision for the future

eternity, clearly stating that preparation for heaven can only take place before we depart this life, there being no second chance afforded or opportunity to reconsider once a person dies (Heb 9:27).