During a tough economy, his company was making money hand over fist. While others were struggling, he was thriving. His success was not surprising. The shrewd businessman had a long string of profitable years. He was wealthy…and he liked his money. The only thing he liked better than the money was making more money. Sitting down one night to go over the books, he poured a drink and reviewed his options. Then he made the same decision he always made in the meetings with himself—expansion! He decided to sell off some smaller businesses to buy bigger ones.

He already had more money than he could ever spend. In a reflective moment, he thought to himself, “One of these days, I am going to slow down and take life easy; eat, drink, and be merry as they say.” The man sat alone, swirled his drink in his glass, took one last gulp, went to bed, and quickly fell asleep…and never woke up. During that night, God said to him, “Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be” (Luke 12:20)? The rich fool died in his sleep; his last thoughts focused on making more money.

Jesus told this story. He concluded by saying that this is how it will be for anyone “who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:21). A verse in Proverbs says it like this.

Proverbs 16:9
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

Certainly, we are not to be plan-less. We should prayerfully determine what God wants us to do and go after it. But always hold your plans loosely. The sovereign God is the giver of every good gift, including every breath we take. In the end, he will determine your steps. And as you make your plans, remember that God has never been impressed by money, jobs, careers, businesses, portfolios, sports cars, or houses. He’s looking for big hearts intent on following hard after him.

Father, keep us so close to you that our plans are your plans. May we always keep in step with you.
In Christ’s name.
Amen.