Preparation

In preparing for battle I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.
- Dwight D. Eisenhower

Boy, does this quote ever ring true with me! I've never prepared for a military battle, but my life's experience has shown me that even though the best laid plans rarely ever go 'as planned,' the planning really is what prepares one to be able to respond properly when plans go awry.

I have never been thrown a 'curve ball' in my entire life. Neither have you, even though sometimes it can feel that way. Our lives are built and ordained by God and if plans fall through, then God's will has been accomplished in the falling through of those plans. But that does not give us an excuse to stop planning, stop preparing, or stop going into battle. Because the truth is, we are all in a daily battle and we must be prepared:

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.

Comments

[Terri]

Hi Kim,
Thanks for the quote and what you said. It really hit me how often I refer to my trials or plans that fall through as "curve balls" or the " rug being pulled out from under me" Thanks for the reminder that my life and even those things that happen outside of my planned attempts are in God's sovereign plan.
Hope you have a blessed Christmas.

[The Arthur Clan]

You sure do find the most perfect quotes to share. This one was wonderful!