In 1 Cor 16:5-12, Paul discusses his plans with the Corinthians, plans which included overseeing the administration of the collection they were making for the church in Jerusalem. It’s clear from 2 Corinthians that these plans didn’t work out exactly as he anticipated! His Plan A was to travel to Macedonia, winter at Corinth to help them and then go to Judea with the collection. Plan B was to go to Corinth and then travel through Macedonia and returning to Corinth before going to Judea with the collection (2 Cor 1:15-16). Plan C meant he didn’t spend as much time at Corinth as he’d wanted (and for which he was criticised.)
The fact that Paul acknowledges plans have to be flexible (‘perhaps’, ‘I hope’, ‘if the Lord permits’ feature in this passage!) reminds us that all our plans may come to nothing, but this is not the end of the world. If God is in control, then even obstacles can become opportunities! James teaches us what our attitude towards planning should be (James 4:13-17) and Paul reminds the Ephesians that we need to live ‘not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.’ (Eph 5:15-16) Prov 16:3 offers us wise advice: ‘Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. [Put God in charge of your work, then what you’ve planned will take place.] (Prov 16:3)
When planning, we need to pray much, seeking God’s guidance and help. We also need:
- flexibility (if God stops us, interrupts us or re-arranges our plans, we have to ‘go with the flow’ – see Acts 16:6-10)
- good communication (Paul’s relationship with the Corinthians was damaged because of his change of plans – good communication can overcome these obstacles)
- an understanding that God is the owner of our time as well as of our possessions.
- an understanding that setbacks can actually be propellants; obstacles can be stepping stones