Accurate Assumptions

My assumptions can get me into or out of trouble. I once assumed I would have enough cash to cover a five year office lease, but two years into my obligation the “great recession” inflicted its economic pain. I limped through the final three years of my commitment, supported by subleases—but my original assumption caused a lot of angst. Conversely, I assumed our Board of Directors would support me through this financial storm with their prayers, wise counsel and support— and they did. Assumptions require adjustments.

James wisely warns against the naive assumptions of another day of life—much less expecting future business. He is warning against pompous presumptions. A person’s vision aligned with the Almighty’s vision has divine resources to draw upon. James admonishes us to trust the Lord with tomorrow’s unpredictability and plan accordingly. Before we commit to a potential project or person, we must qualify our assumptions with questions. What does God think? What is my motivation? What is the best and worst case scenario? Assumptions need to be challenged.

“Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring” (Proverbs 27:1).

What do you face that requires you to make some assumptions? It may be as simple as throwing a rain slicker into your car because there is a high probability of precipitation. Or, it could be as complicated as a plan to fund your children’s college education. Do you forgo private school now, so you can save for higher education later? Is out of state tuition an option? Is a school loan a wise choice for you? Make assumptions based on the most accurate data possible. Spend the necessary time to define your best options. Ask experts for their input and to validate your ideas.

Most of all, seek to understand what God’s will looks like. Be careful not to assume the path of least resistance is the Lord’s way. Your best ideas could require a season of suffering before you experience desired outcomes. Why settle for the crumbs of cushy commitments when you can feast on God’s faithfulness in the middle of a fiery trial? Don’t assume quick successes that only feed your pride. Rather embrace long term accomplishments forged on God’s anvil of adversity. Humility molds the motives of those who assume the Lord is in control. Assume Jesus knows!

“You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure” (Psalm 39:5).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me base my assumptions on Your track record, not on my limited resources.

Related Readings: Psalm 144:4; Isaiah 2:22; John 9:41; Luke 12:18-20

Post/Tweet this today: A person’s vision aligned with the Almighty’s vision has divine resources to draw upon. #assumptions #wisdomhunters

Additional Resource: 6 minute music video- The Gaither’s: I Can’t Even Walk

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