Roadmaps & FootprintsSample

DAY 3: STRATEGY - PART 1

This scripture also says, in verse 8, “but the one who lacks these things is blind and short-sighted.” Short-sightedness almost always overlooks the importance of formulating a strategy. It causes us to be impulsive and less calculated in our methodology and move forward without self-control or patience. I believe we all have a strategy when executing a plan, either consciously or subconsciously. Even when we fly by the seat of our pants without a formally planned strategy, I believe we’ve chosen a strategy of no strategy, if that makes sense. You’ve heard the phrase, “if we choose not to do something, we have still made a choice.” Same premise. A strategy initiates the process of transitioning between a vision and the actions necessary to execute that vision. For instance, a mission statement is a byproduct of a worthwhile vision and articulates a necessary direction. However, in and of itself, a mission statement does not constitute a strategy.

The strategy outlines the resources needed and the best ways to utilize those resources. If you’re familiar with Gideon and his encounter with the angel of the Lord, you know the angel addressed him as a “mighty man of valor” and commanded him to “go in this strength of yours and save Israel from the control of Midian.” After several attempts to deny this calling and bow out as the self-proclaimed weakling, Gideon understood that a strategy was imperative. What began as an army of 22,000 men became a significantly condensed group of 300 men. Gideon’s strategy was an act of obedience and faith, and you know how the story ends. Gideon and his men blew their horns and broke their jars, and the enemy fled (Judges 7:20). We often feel the responsibility of casting the vision, then directing strategy based solely on our knowledge and expertise.

As you know, this is limited and constrictive thinking if it is based on our strength and wisdom alone. I have experienced many instances where I implemented course corrections based on where I felt God was leading me in my prayer time. There is value and revelation in those moments where we yield to what God is saying to us through the Holy Spirit. A productive strategy will identify three areas we can best deploy valuable resources to accomplish the mission. We will discuss these in the coming session: what, who, and where we need to enlist our resources.

CHALLENGE STEP:

What strategy is God showing you, and what areas can you adjust or refine similar to Gideon?