I find myself in a season of planning. All week long, I've been working on strategies and schedules, trying to map out some next steps in both my life and my work. I've identified some growth areas that need to be addressed and I've tried to figure out some good ideas for moving in that direction. That kind of planning is what I would call "nuts and bolts," and it's what I love to do.
As much as I love to do that sort of thing, however, I've been reminded repeatedly over the past few days how little in life really has to do with scheduling and planning. Even when we want to see changes, the key generally isn't figuring out the next steps.
Instead, the key is usually more a matter of the heart.
I suspect that this is something that you already know. But I find that I need to learn the lesson over and over again. Even the best plans won't lead to much good if my heart isn't in the right place. On the other hand, if my heart is in the right place, even mediocre plans will lead to some great things. So I would probably be wise to worry less about my planning - and pay more attention to the condition of my heart.
A heart that's in "the right place" is a heart that is open, filled with grace, easily shaped. That kind of heart is willing to trust others. That kind of heart is gentle and kind.
And with that kind of a heart, we find ourselves able to deal with even difficult challenges.
Right now, in a number of different settings, I'm struggling with important decisions. Decisions that will be hard to make. Decisions that might be misunderstood. Decisions that will potentially do some damage. Decisions, though, that might be necessary and even God-honoring. And my sincere hope is that everyone involved in the process - including me - has the right kind of heart.
If that turns out to be true - if our hearts are right - then things will work out fine. But if our hearts are not in the right place, then it won't matter much what we decide.
I always thought what mattered most was exhibiting wisdom, making the right decisions, coming up with the best plan. And I'm sure that those things are important.
Lately, though, I've come to understand that the condition of our hearts matters a whole lot more.
What's more, the only heart I'm really able to influence is mine.
So that becomes my prayer for today: Lord God, give me the right kind of heart.