Making plans. 1Corinthians 16:5-12 God has given much to me from His fullness, so that I might give to meet the needs of others. The saints who gather together in local churches have received funds from God through their labor, and from that they have been trusted with, they might proportionately give as a corporate act of worship. I have received that I might give. It is important that I choose with care what I do with what God has given me. The responsibility is great because, through the act of giving, God is to be glorified. It is necessary to send support to others with care knowing both the need and distance are great. Plan with care; stewardship is a great responsibility.
It is right to take the time necessary to make plans for the future. However, there is a caveat that goes with our plans, and that is “If the Lord wills.” The leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit is needed concerning our labor as to where, when, what, why, and how we go about our service for the Lord. Ministering to the Lord’s people requires flexibility in relation to time, subject material, and awareness of our limitations as well as our capabilities.
We also need to be willing to point out the advantages and abilities of others who are more able to meet the needs of the Lord’s people and the work of the Gospel than we are. Not all who labor in the Gospel or in itinerant teaching are alike. The variety of gifts, linked with talents and personality traits makes it possible to meet the different needs of different people who hear the word of God publicly proclaimed.
There will likely be opposition of one kind or another when we go forward in faith with the Gospel. The teaching required in establishing the Lord’s people in the faith and consolidating the work of the Gospel and teaching into a properly functioning biblical new testament assembly of believers will generally meet with some opposition. We need to keep in our mind and in our plans the commission of our Lord Jesus Christ and then we will remember that He has promised, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the age.
Stop awhile; the believers need you. Stay awhile; you need them. Tarry awhile; the work needs you. Then go ahead; the door is open. Move ahead; the time is right. Plan ahead; there is too much to be done to have to do a job over. Work together: there are other true laborers. Rejoice together; the work is one. Fellowship together; the strength is there. Look to the future; the Gospel needs vision. Praise now; the grace of God is here. Love always; we are one in Christ.