Forethought: Planning in Advance for Wise Decision Making
Forethought is the practice of anticipating future outcomes and preparing accordingly. It involves careful consideration of possible consequences before taking action, enabling wise and strategic choices that align with God's purposes and human wisdom.
Biblical Foundations of Forethought
God demonstrates perfect forethought, seeing the end from the beginning. The bringing of life and immortality through Jesus Christ was no afterthought—it was the forethought of God, the revealing of His glorious plan of grace designed before the foundation of the world. This divine example establishes forethought as a godly characteristic worth cultivating.
Trust in the Lord, yet take appropriate action
Scripture consistently commends those who exercise foresight. In the parable of the wise bridesmaids, their foresight and precaution paid off, while those who didn't prepare missed out (Mt 25:1-13). Even the shrewd manager was commended for his prudence to make provision for his future (Lk 16:1-8). These passages illustrate that preparation and anticipation are valued in God's kingdom.
Jesus taught that forethought is essential for discipleship. Becoming His disciple requires giving up everything we have for Him in voluntary submission—being determined and dedicated to continue when the initial enthusiasm has gone (Lk 9:23,62). Some costs, struggles and hardships we may anticipate in advance, while others appear in the heat of battle, requiring strong faith in God and steadfast character to endure.
Practical Applications of Forethought
Budgeting, seeking advice, feasibility studies and planning are wise steps before embarking on projects that require considerable investment
in time, finance or effort. Forethought anticipates possible areas of concern and proactively makes suitable preparation; "If the owner of
the house had known at what time the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into" (Lk 12:39).
In order to reap a harvest, the seeds must be planted
"Plans fail for lack of counsel" so careful analysis of the facts prior to commencing something will ensure there are adequate resources and a strong likelihood of the goal being met, with no biblical principle or command being violated (Prov 15:22; Lk 14:28-32). What is the possible outcome or consequence of the proposed action; will it be helpful to others and glorifying to God?
Clearly identify your desired goals. This gives a target to aim for, enabling strategies to be applied to bring it about. In Babylon, Daniel thought through the options, and so could present a valid alternative solution that would not compromise his convictions (Dan 1:8,12-13). Without a specific goal, definite plans and motivation to implement the required measures, you will just drift, carried along by various impulses and fads, without accomplishing what you were born for.
Eternal Perspective on Forethought
Many people make preparation for this life, putting a financial nest egg away for retirement and the benefit of their children, but have
they prepared for the next? As Christians, we know the significance of making provision for eternity, recognizing that without Jesus as
Saviour we won't experience eternal life. It is our responsibility to share Jesus with the lost, awakening them to the tragedy of a
Christ-less eternity.
Make sensible provision for the future
Preparation for heaven can only take place before we depart this life—there is no second chance or opportunity to reconsider once a person dies (Heb 9:27). This eternal perspective should inform all our forethought, reminding us that while earthly planning is valuable, spiritual preparation is paramount. Whatever we give up for God will not go unrewarded. "No one who has left…will fail to receive…and in the age to come, eternal life" (1 Sam 2:30; Mk 10:28-30).
So know what you want and pay the price to make it a reality. Define what you want to reap and sow the seeds accordingly. This principle applies both to earthly endeavors and spiritual growth. The forethought we exercise today determines the harvest we will gather tomorrow, both in this life and in eternity.
Reflection and Application:
- Practice regular prayer and seek God's wisdom before making important decisions.
- Set clear goals that align with biblical principles and God's purposes for your life.
- Cultivate the habit of anticipating consequences before taking action.
- Balance trust in God's sovereignty with responsible preparation and planning.