So—when you want to accomplish something significant, is it important to plan or pray? The answer, once again, is Yes. It’s another of the paradoxes of the Christian life, because there are two streams of causality that simultaneously are making things happen—you and God. Planning and prayer are like your right arm and left arm—you need and want them both: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3).

Planning is good. You need to decide on a clear objective, count the cost, build your team, anticipate problems, get advice, work out the supply chain, communicate, accumulate resources, and set a realistic schedule. Now obviously you don’t need to be religious to do all these things. But here are the advantages of bringing God into your planning: You honor him by consulting him and his Word. You have a chance in advance to see whether your project and your operating style are in harmony with his agenda. You can check your motives to see whether you just want to make a lot of money or whether you actually want to help people. 

Asking for God’s help also puts the resources of the universe on your side. When God speaks the word, anything can happen. When God speaks the word, you get twice as strong and your challenges are only half as large.

Oh, by the way—when you are successful, remember to say thank-you.