PLANNING FOR VICTORY
Keith Tucci, NRP Apostolic Team Leader
As we prepare to say goodbye to 2020, this year will be a marker of how we responded to the unknown, the unseen, and the unanticipated. Usually at this time of year, I’m excited about planning for the next year. In light of 2020, I’m really looking forward to next year! When you plan, you are putting action items on your vision. Leaders look ahead and chart a course. Everyone associated with you has one thing the same--a 365-day calendar. Planning is the language of vision. In Luke 16, Jesus commended the unrighteous servant because he took the initiative of making a plan for his future. Jesus didn't commend him for his shrewdness in manipulating the masters, but for his thinking ahead. What’s your desired future? What needs to happen to make that a reality? When does it need to happen? We have fifty-two weeks, and then we will be back here again. What will 2021 look like? You get to influence that now by planning ahead. Proverbs 6:6 says, “Go to the ant, O sluggard, and observe her ways and be wise.”Verse 8 says she prepares her food in the summer and gathers her provision in the harvest. All we have to do is be as wise as an ant! The ant knew there would be seasons coming and made a plan! Do not allow the distractions of 2020 to impose its shadow on 2021. What outreaches are going to happen? What special events and programs? What mission opportunities? What leadership training and sharpening? What new small groups? What worship and prayer gatherings? None of it will happen unless you are as wise as an ant. Time is precious to people. Make it count by getting those looking to you for leadership on the same page!