Optimistic or Delusional?
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31 ESV
Perhaps you’ve heard it said, “One with God is a majority.” Thinking realistically, this is very true. But, living this truth can be a very different reality.
Part of strategic leadership is thinking and planning ahead with a good understanding of risk assessment. The inexperienced idealist would simply ignore perceived risk, plan and execute those plans hoping that it all works out well.
Proverbs 22:3 says, “The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.” Prudence, a component of godly wisdom, assesses risk, and if judged to be too great, seeks protection from it. The simple person sees the risk also, but ignores it and pays the price.
The question is how to evaluate risk? All of life is a risk, for none of us knows for certain about tomorrow, next week or next year. We don’t even know with absolute certainty our next breath! As Kingdom leaders, what do we do to wisely assess risk and then act accordingly?
First, we acknowledge our limitations in knowing with any degree of certainty what the future holds. We acknowledge how dependent we are on the Lord to guide us, give us insight and discernment as we plan, and wisely choose courses of action that are pleasing to Him. This self-awareness should move us to prayer and listening to His Spirit as He guides us.
Second, we seek what information we can to learn of the risks that we face. Some will be clearly visible and some not so. Risk is assessed in light of the potential impact on our mission. Scenario planning can be helpful in thinking what courses of action might be available if things go poorly. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst.
Third, make your decision by faith in trusting the Lord that He is with you and will never leave you. He and His resources will be with you. And should things not go as well as hoped for, you know that He has control of it all and will use it for good – for you and for His purposes in and through you. Romans 8:28
Lastly, should things really go poorly, we must be flexible enough to change our plans.
Leading is risky business! How’s your risk assessment?
Developing Kingdom Leaders - Tom Yeakley 