Forward Thinking

Posted by: Sober Chick on: January 1, 2012

• In: Christian Walk | Growing In Christ | Renewing The Mind
• 18 Comments

“Every prudent man acts with knowledge,
But a fool displays folly.” (Proverbs 13:16)

As the new year is starting my mind is already looking toward my future and what lies ahead.  Of course, there are many circumstances that are out of my control, but that doesn’t mean that I shouldn’t have forethought and make careful plans for the days ahead.  In fact, God wants us to have foresight and I believe it pleases Him if I have an attitude of “forward thinking”.  The verse above talks of a prudent man.  Prudence simply means careful management, taking care in providing for the future.  Other words that relate to prudence are discretion, foresight and forethought.  All of these refer to the exercise of good judgment, common sense, and even caution.

My conduct in practical matters are important as well.  I am to be responsible with my money.  Living beyond my means is not a wise decision and racking up credit card bills and debt will only hinder me and cause undue stress and tension.  How will I be effective in my walk with Christ if I am constantly worrying about how I’m going to pay my bills because I spent too much on shoes or dining out?  I recently gained employment as a server at a nice restaurant.    I really like my new job but I work with other women who are constantly worried that they won’t get enough tables and someone else is getting more than they have.  Honestly, I don’t worry about it.  And do you know why?  Because of my faithful God!  I know and believe that the Lord will take care of me and He will give me the right amount of tables and the right amount of tips that He feels I need.  It’s a very freeing feeling. 

Jesus promises provision of food and clothing in Matthew 6:25-34 if we seek His Kingdom first.

So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear? These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today. (Matthew 6:31-34)

Careful planning and forward thinking does not include worry.   God wants us to trust Him and believe that He will take care of us.

“And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)

Setting attainable goals is really important in early recovery.  By setting small goals for myself, it enabled me to stay focused on doing the right things.  Early recovery is uncomfortable and confusing.  Our thoughts, feelings, emotions and physical changes are all jumbled up at once and every one of them are elevated and to the extreme.  It’s not fun and it’s hard to handle especially when we are at our most vulnerable and very easily influenced.  Setting goals starts you off developing a new, healthy habit.

So let’s all pray for wisdom in our foresight and make plans to have a prosperous year living within our means.  Let’s all think before we act and remember that we are a witness for Christ.  Unbelievers are watching us.  Let’s let the light of Jesus shine through us for all to see.

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