God Provides, in Advance. (Part 2)
We all know that God has His perfect time in everything. And in the previous post, I shared why I believe that when it comes to God’s provision, this “perfect time” is usually given early and in advance. In this post, I am just sharing some thoughts on how to apply this in different areas.
Are you sowing today? What if the things that you have today are actually seeds that God gave you NOW so that you don’t have to be in a crisis in the FUTURE? What if what you have NOW are enough to achieve your dreams in the future? Treat the seeds that you have today as ones that God has provided to you to produce wealth in the future (Deuteronomy 8:18). The Bible teaches us to be wise like ants.
The succeeding verses also tell us not to procrastinate (see Proverbs 6:6-11 for the full context). Here are some thoughts on how to apply.
On Finances
Categorize your needs, goals, and hopes into time horizons:
- Immediate/short term (0-2 years)
- Mid-term (3-10 years)
- Long-term (>10 years)
Invest NOW and invest accordingly. Select risk profiles that are in line with your time horizons. Use compounding interest so you’ll have more than enough for that future plan.
One quick note, on the immediate/short-term needs. Discuss what-if scenarios with your family and plan risk mitigations, usually through (1) setting aside an emergency fund and (2) getting appropriate insurance policies. Look for a credible financial coach/mentor if you need help. Don’t be immersed in fear but act out in faith and wisdom. Seek God in everything and He will direct your steps (Proverbs 16:9).
On Strengths, Skills, and Talent
Ask these questions:
- What skills do you have today to produce wealth?
- Will your skills expire at some point? (e.g. if you’re in the IT industry like me, then maybe the solutions that you currently know will not be very useful in the future)
- What skills do you think you need in the future? Are those skills in line with your strengths?
In all these things ask God to guide you to the skills that you need that are in line with your purpose.
On Health
You know… exercise, eat right, sleep right, and take regular breaks. Our skills and assets are meaningless if we don’t have a healthy body. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)
On Relationships
No man is an island. We are meant to live in a community. Here is how you can potentially categorize:
- Brothers (or sisters)-in-arms: You need those friends who will help sharpen you. (Proverbs 27:17)
- Mentors, Coaches, and Sponsors: These are very different groups of people (and aside from exceptions, they are not your manager!) Here’s a good article on this topic. Your church pastor or leader should be one of your mentors.
- Professional network: Very important for your career.
- Family: Your family is the top priority. Be at peace with them and live happily. Thinking through your plans with them in mind will help you set the right objectives and boundaries.
Who are the people that God put into your life today? Pray and ask why.