Planning Ahead

Read Nehemiah 2:11–3:32

13. After dark I went out through the Valley Gate, past the Jackal’s Well, and over to the Dung Gate to inspect the broken walls and burned gates.
14. Then I went to the Fountain Gate and to the King’s Pool, but my donkey couldn’t get through the rubble.
15. So, though it was still dark, I went up the Kidron Valley instead, inspecting the wall before I turned back and entered again at the Valley Gate.
16. The city officials did not know I had been out there or what I was doing, for I had not yet said anything to anyone about my plans. I had not yet spoken to the Jewish leaders—the priests, the nobles, the officials, or anyone else in the administration.
17. But now I said to them, “You know very well what trouble we are in. Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire. Let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem and end this disgrace!” Nehemiah 2:13-17

Commercial aircraft have four levels of backup in their navigational systems. If something goes wrong with the hydraulic lines that control the flaps, for example, a second set can take over. These planes also carry far more fuel than they need for every trip. This is just planning ahead. From planes to personal projects, such preparations mean the difference between risking failure and having great probability of success.

Nehemiah needs a workable plan to successfully accomplish the desire God has placed in his heart—to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Before Nehemiah can come up with a plan, however, he must do his homework. Nehemiah knows that he has his work cut out for him—the settlers’ morale is low, and the neighboring kingdoms don’t want the Jews to get ambitious. As you read this story, watch how Nehemiah designs his plan.

Nehemiah’s project also has lessons about sharing dreams and about each believer doing his or her part in the body of Christ.

Nehemiah arrived quietly in Jerusalem and spent several days carefully observing and assessing the damage to the walls. Nehemiah kept his mission a secret, surveying the walls by moonlight to prevent enemies from being alerted to his plans. Only after careful planning would he go public with his mission. A premature announcement could have caused rivalry among the Jews over the best way to begin. In this case, Nehemiah didn’t need brainstorming sessions; he needed one plan that would bring quick action. Following this time of thoughtful consideration, he confidently presented his plan (Nehemiah 2:11-17).

Nehemiah demonstrated an excellent approach to problem solving. First, he got all the accurate information he needed to assess the situation. Then he presented a realistic strategy.

Before jumping into a project, follow Nehemiah’s example and plan ahead. Check your information to make sure your ideas will work, and be realistic. Then you will be able to present your plan with confidence.