I took the opportunity to again look at the life of Nehemiah. I was reminded of his heart for planning. God put building a wall on his heart and Nehemiah started thinking and moving forward. How are you at planning? Think about this – There are two types of people in the world when it comes to planning:
The Type 1 person – These are people who don’t plan. Oh, believe me, they think they have plans. But in reality they are the owners of a lot of dreams, but few if any plans! They merely drift through life, bouncing from pillar to post, like an old-fashioned pinball machine. Normally those who don’t plan, don’t prosper – “The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty” (Proverbs 21:5). And it’s a long-time adage that “planning ahead will get you ahead!”
If you are that person who doesn’t plan, maybe now is the time to start. It’s as simple as making a list of things you need to do today, tomorrow, next week, and next year. If you don’t plan your day, you can be sure someone else will plan it for you. Be the master of your day by planning and mastering your plan for your every day.
The Type 2 person – These are people who do plan. Planning is a lifestyle for these Type 2 managers and leaders. They have lists, schedules, and goals. And they are producing results. Wherever they place their focus and attention, things happen. Things get done.
This is the good news! But the bad news is that in their planning there is also neglect. In other words, they often focus on the physical, and neglect those things that are spiritual and of eternal and personal value – things like a closer relationship with God and family. If you are a Type 2 person – a person who plans – evaluate your focus. Make sure that you plan in time with God and lots of time with you family. These are the things that really matter.
To read more on the life of Nehemiah, read A Leader After God’s Own Heart.
Read From Jim’s Heart… Two Types of People on Elizabeth & Jim George.