Don’t Embarrass Yourself

Daily Devotional – Friday, February 26, 2021

But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it?

Luke 14:28 (NLT)

Do you see unfinished structures in your neighbourhood? Some were abandoned during the foundation phase. Others are at different phases of completion. The common factor is that they remain unfinished.

How about us? We have many stalled business projects, farming ventures, academic endeavours, spiritual plans, and academic undertakings. We either lack resources, time, or the will to complete what we start.

Jesus taught His disciples project management. He used the analogy of a person intending to construct a building. Financial planning is paramount. If you don’t have adequate funds, don’t start the project, because if it fails, you will be laughed at.

Jesus cautioned, “Whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:27). Carrying a cross entailed toil and sweat. It exposed one to ridicule from those who did not believe in Jesus. It was costly (sometimes life-threatening) to follow Jesus.

How many of us would benefit from Christ’s advice? Do you have stalled projects because of poor planning? How often do you sit down to plan, count the cost, and make decisions based on credible information?

Our circumstances may be different from those of the early disciples, but Jesus does not expect any less from us. Count the cost of everything you plan to do. Weigh the costs and benefits. Thank God that unlike with man’s projects, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6–NIV).

Prayer

Lord Jesus, teach me how to plan and finish my projects.