Follow Me: Timeless Leadership LessonsSýnishorn

MAKE ADJUSTMENTS

“Failed plans should not be interpreted as a failed vision. Visions don't change, they are only refined. Plans rarely stay the same and are scrapped or adjusted as needed. Be stubborn about the vision, but flexible with your plan.”
– John C. Maxwell

Paul made plans but held them loosely. He had mapped out where he thought the group should go, but God had something else in mind. Paul and his merry men were “kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in Asia” (Acts 16:6). They tried another option, but “the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them” (Acts 16:7). I wish we had a few more details about these divine redirections. What roadblocks did God use? How did he detour Paul and his partners? I don’t know, but I’m grateful that Paul was sensitive to the Spirit’s redirection and willing to be re-routed. Who knows what would have happened if Paul had stubbornly insisted on his plan and forced his way toward his goal?

Paul was convinced that his mission was from God, but he knew that his plans were his own. Consequently, he was willing to adjust them when necessary. Andy Stanley, pastor of North Point Community Church, captures this idea when he says, “Marry your mission. Date your model.” He puts it another way when he says, “Fall in love with your vision. Stay mildly infatuated with your approach.”

Our world is changing faster than ever. The forms, the models, the plans will need to change just as rapidly, while our calling, mission, and ultimate vision hold firm. The leaders who understand that will continue to lead and thrive. The others will not. Stay committed to your calling, but write your plans in pencil.

REFLECT

• Are you cultivating the habit of listening to and obeying the Spirit’s promptings? 
• When God seems to be nudging you, write down what you think He’s saying. Keep a record of His prompting and your response.