“For which of you, wanting to build a tower, doesn’t first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, after he has laid the foundation and cannot finish it, all the onlookers will begin to make fun of him, saying, ‘This man started to build and wasn’t able to finish.’”
Luke 14:28-30 HCSB
My husband and I have built two homes together. Both times, we prepared by reviewing the floor plans, touring the home styles we were considering, choosing the specific lot, and determining which of the custom options would make the home uniquely ours. We considered our budget and allotted for the items accordingly.
We are currently preparing to replace some of our flooring. We’re researching online, traveling to multiple stores, and picking up samples to determine which would coordinate best with the other items in our home. Some options don’t fit our budget, and others are not durable enough to last. And whichever flooring we choose, it’s been suggested that we pick up an additional ten percent of the materials to have as a contingency.
Whether we’re preparing plans for an upcoming vacation, a summer garden, or any other project that needs our attention, we must consider what the project will cost in time, materials, funds, and energy. We’ll need to complete the job, beginning with the research stage, all the way through to the finish. We must count the costs, even adding in a contingency for the unexpected.
We are reminded in Proverbs 19:21 that “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” If we seek guidance from the Lord and we take the time to prepare and see the project through, we’ll be able to step back and enjoy the reward of a job well done!
PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank You for being with us during all of our planning and projects. Please help us to use our resources wisely and to see things through to completion. May we honor You every step of the way. In Christ’s name, Amen.
Journal: What projects do you have coming up soon? What steps do you need to take to see them through?
Porch Chair Prayers 