Todays thought regards strategic planning, which has become prevalent in ministry. Some argue that strategic planning is way too CEO and corporate, though strategic planning is fading even in the business world. In addition, it can deter us from the move of the Spirit as we want to stick to the plan. It’s one thing to be prepared, it’s another to stick to the plan. Consider this thought:
If you want to know what happens to “planners,” check out the story of the 10 Bridesmaids in Matthew 25:1-13. 5 were strategic planners, and kept “to the plan” and trimmed their wicks accordingly. 5 were Scouts – “Be Prepared” - since they had now way of knowing when the bridegroom is going to arrive. You always have to be in a state of expectation and awareness, constantly paying attention. And the ones who went to the party were the Scouts.
The strategic planners have one of the most horrid things ever spoken about anyone said of them: “And the door was shut.” The doors of the future are being shut to us because we think “planning” not “preparedness.”
Do you plan or prepare? Preparedness organic, an aspect of complexity or chaos theory. It is sensitive to the moving and wooing of the Spirit. Planning is wooden and rigid and structured.
Talk about that…
We have several clients who have blessed us with using QuickPlanner Plus for the development of their strategic development of their religious ministry. It creates a living faith-filled document that can help guide ministerial preparedness.