Topic: PONDER AND RESTRATEGIZE
Texts: Ecclesiastes 3:1-4; Luke 14:28-32.
Introduction
Life is a journey filled with unexpected twists and challenges. At times, we may find ourselves facing difficult situations that require us to take a step back, reflect, and strategize our approach. This process, often referred to as “pondering,” entails deep thought and contemplation. Looking back at the events of this year, it becomes evident that numerous challenges have caused many individuals to lose their focus. An African proverb wisely states that when a child stumbles and falls, they look forward, whereas an elderly person looks back to identify the cause of their fall. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to avoid persisting in a struggle without achieving tangible results. Each person’s life experiences grant them the opportunity to contemplate strategies that lead to greater achievements at every crossroads. The Bible also encourages us to engage in such pondering and restrategizing in the face of challenging circumstances. Proverbs 18:15-16 emphasizes the acquisition of knowledge by discerning hearts and the power of one’s gifts in opening doors to opportunities. These verses underscore the importance of wisdom and knowledge in attaining success. They encourage us not to shy away from seeking information and learning from those who have achieved great things in their lives. By doing so, we can gain valuable insights that enable us to restrategize and overcome obstacles in our own lives.
This writing explains how you can move forward in your life strategies:
- Understand the Seasons:
Ecclesiastes 3:1-4 states, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance.” These verses remind us that life is full of seasons, and they constantly change. They suggest that we should be flexible and willing to adjust our approach depending on the circumstances we find ourselves in. Sometimes we need to tear down old structures to build something new, and sometimes we need to be introspective and reflective before we can find joy.
By contemplating these truths, we can gain the insight we need to re-strategize our approach to life. Many people are not sensitive to the dynamics of time and season. One of the greatest gifts that God has given to humanity is the change of time and seasons. Seasonal changes can manifest in economic, climatic, socio-political, and structural shifts. All these changes present their own challenges that affect individuals within the environment. One essential factor that can help people overcome any form of challenge is understanding the seasons, reflecting on them, and formulating effective strategies.
2. Be Strategic in Your Focus.
In Luke 14:28-32, Jesus tells a parable about a man who wants to build a tower. He advises the man to sit down and count the cost to ensure he has enough resources to complete the project. This parable highlights the importance of careful planning and foresight in achieving our goals and overcoming obstacles. The reason many people are stuck at any given moment is that they do not plan strategically to meet the challenges that may come their way. When facing any challenge, giving up or settling for less is not the best option; approaching it with an open mind and determination is the best way to achieve a favorable outcome. As the adage says, “If an ox makes you fall, you will reclaim it.”
The following tips will help you:
Identify your priorities: Determine which tasks or projects are most important for achieving your goals. Rank them in order of importance and focus on the highest priority ones first.
Limit distractions: Eliminate or reduce distractions that hinder your focus. This can be done by turning off your phone or computer, closing unnecessary browser tabs, and finding a quiet space to work.
Use time blocking: Schedule your time to allocate dedicated periods for focused work. This can help minimize interruptions and increase productivity.
Break down large tasks: When faced with a large project, break it down into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach can help you feel less overwhelmed and allow you to focus on one task at a time.
Take breaks: It’s important to give your brain rest periods to recharge and refresh. Take short breaks throughout the day to stretch, walk, or simply step away from your work.
Remember, being strategic in your focus involves being intentional and deliberate with your time and energy. By prioritizing tasks, limiting distractions, and taking breaks, you can increase your effectiveness and achieve your goals more efficiently.
Conclusion
Pondering and re-strategizing are essential skills for navigating life’s challenges. You can overcome obstacles and achieve your goals by reflecting on your circumstances, seeking wisdom and knowledge, and adjusting your approach. The Bible offers many examples of people who have done just that, and by studying their models, we can gain valuable insights that can help us succeed in our own lives.
Finally, the only person who can help you with strategies is the Lord Jesus Christ. He is a master planner and a helper in times of trouble. You must surrender your life to Him as your Lord and Savior.
Let’s Pray:
Father Lord, I thank You for Your love for me and for always being there for me, even in times of trouble. Many times, I have failed to let You have Your way in my challenges. Please have mercy on me and see me through. I place You ahead of me in the second half of this year, bless me with Your divine direction to the right path. Amen.
John Aderogba for ROPMI.