Faith Not Planning
by Alison Scarborough
Every day as I enter the office I see the scripture 2 Corinthians 5:7 on a poster and it’s a great encouragement to me.
I’ve never thought of myself as particularly imaginative, especially in a creative way, but as one of life’s natural planners I’ve recently come to the understanding that I am using my imagination. I use my imagination to think things through, a project perhaps and what it will take to complete, a social event and what I will wear (just how large a suitcase do I need for a two day weekend away really?), a friendship and how that will develop.
I know I’m not alone in this, and I also know that it’s entirely possible to get caught up in planning. Anybody who’s ever been part of planning a wedding will know how easy it is to get caught up in Plan A and Plan B and then Contingencies C, D, E!
Maybe some of you are more like Abram, willing to leave your country and family at God’s command and promise of blessing, without a road map and any certainty of your destination. Abram is credited for his faith because of that willingness. Personally, I know I’d be planning from the moment of God’s command, roughly how far I can walk in a day, what water will be available when I get there, where is the nearest food supply, who would go with me, and I’d be asking God for some pointers as to what comes next after the leaving.
God says: “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).
The conclusion I’ve come to is that God longs for us to submit our creative imagination to Him. Under God we can envision the things He wants us to hold in faith. We can seek Him for His plans for the very best way forward as we look to Him, and He’ll lead us step by step, using the gifts and talents He’s given us.
Over-planning, ‘seeing’ every situation and possible outcome through our thinking, will only stop us from moving forward. As we try to control our future and feel safe about what’s coming, we run the risk of becoming bound by all our possible outcomes and solutions. And we miss the very best truth of all – that God’s plans are best.
Prayer: Father, thank You that the plans You have for me are to bless me and not to harm me. I’m sorry where I try to see round corners and plan things to feel and stay safe. I receive Your forgiveness where I’ve used my imagination to protect myself. Please help me to grow in faith, help me to hear Your truth, that Your plans for me are for good and not for disaster. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Alison Scarborough has been part of the Ellel Ministries Team since 1997 having completed the `Nine Week School` in 1996. She has worked at Glyndley Manor, near Eastbourne, since joining team and is currently Deputy Director and one of the teachers there. She has travelled to share in teaching at some of Ellel`s other European Centres and enjoyed significant time with the Ellel Ireland team. Before joining Ellel Alison was a nurse and midwife who was especially interested in neuro-intensive care and infectious diseases.
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