Planning is the Rudder, Power is the Sail

Planning is the Rudder, Power is the Sail

Romans 15:22-24 – This is the reason why I have so often been hindered from coming to you. But now, since I no longer have any room for work in these regions, and since I have longed for many years to come to you, I hope to see you in passing as I go to Spain, and to be helped on my journey there by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a while.

Last week, in Romans 15:14-21, we looked at the power of the Word of God, and this week, we move to planning. When it comes to allowing the Holy Spirit to accomplish His works through us, power and planning inextricably go together.

The combination of the two is like a sailboat: Ministry power in the Holy Spirit is like the sail. Ministry planning is ultimately like the rudder. You need both.

For some of us, we’re filled to the brim with the Holy Spirit, and we have a lot of energy, excitement, zeal, and enthusiasm, but we don’t know where we’re going. This can also be known as our 20’s.

Others are very good at plans, but they have no power. These could be the mature saints – they’ve put together a portfolio, they’ve amassed some savings, stocks, and bonds, but they don’t have the same excitement they once did about their faith.

Therefore, it’s good for us all to be together as one big body of Christ. Some people can bring enthusiasm, others can bring the ability to make a plan, and we can all learn from each other. Life will be best, and our boat will sail the most efficiently, when we combine the two.

What are you best at – planning or power? How can you improve in the other area?

To find the free Romans 12-16 digital study guide for individuals and small groups, hear Pastor Mark’s entire sermon series on Romans, or find a free mountain of Bible teaching visit legacy.realfaith.com or download the Real Faith app.

Mark Driscoll
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