Build with a plan

God's blueprint for success

Imagine a man who decides to build a house without first having a blueprint. He starts with enthusiasm, but soon realizes that the walls aren’t straight, the doors are crooked, and the roof doesn’t fit. He had all the right materials, but without a plan, his project descends into chaos. This is what happens when we try to pursue our goals without clear direction. When we rely on our own insights rather than seeking God’s guidance, our lives can spiral into confusion.

Today, we looked at the life of Solomon, the wise king who followed God’s blueprint to build one of the most impressive temples ever constructed. Solomon didn’t start building blindly—he asked God for wisdom and carefully followed the plan that God gave him. Just like Solomon, we also need a blueprint—one that comes from God. This post is about how to discern that divine blueprint for success, plan accordingly, and build with patience and perseverance.

Discerning God’s blueprint

Solomon didn’t just start building; he first sought God’s guidance. He didn’t rely on his own wisdom but asked for wisdom (1 Kings 3:9-12). His first step was to discern God’s plan for the temple and his life. Just like Solomon, we must first seek God’s guidance instead of blindly following our own plans.

The key to understanding God’s plan for our lives is through regular prayer and Bible study. God’s blueprint is found in His Word. It is through quiet time and reflection that we begin to understand His will. If we don’t spend time with God, we’ll never truly understand what He has planned for us. When we discern the blueprint God has for our lives, we build on a solid foundation. Just like Solomon, we need God’s power and guidance to build our lives and goals according to His will.

Strategic planning and help

Solomon didn’t just rely on his own wisdom. He involved others to ensure the success of the temple project. He approached the king of Tyre, Hiram, to get the best building materials and craftsmanship (1 Kings 5:6-9). This collaboration was crucial for the project’s success. Just like Solomon, we are not meant to achieve our goals alone. God places people in our lives to support us and encourage our collaboration. It’s important to recognize the role that others play in God’s plan for us.

But not just anyone—Solomon chose Hiram because he knew he was the best in his craft. We must be strategic about who we involve in our lives. We should choose people who not only have the necessary skills but also a heart for what God is doing in our lives.

Perseverance and patience

Building the temple took seven years (1 Kings 6:38). This reminds us that success doesn’t come overnight. It takes time and perseverance. We live in a culture that expects immediate results, but God often works more slowly, deeply. Great accomplishments require patience. Just like Solomon’s temple was not built in a day, our goals also take time and determination to achieve.

Patience means waiting with calm and trust until God fully unfolds His plan for our lives. It is in the challenging times—when we don’t immediately see the fruits of our labor—that perseverance and patience are tested. We must keep in mind that God is in control, even when we don’t see immediate results.

Practical ways to develop perseverance and patience:

Remember God’s promises: Create reminders of God’s faithfulness in the past.
Celebrate small victories: Every step forward is a victory.
Maintain a prayer life: Prayer is a powerful tool for growing patience and perseverance.
Trust God’s timing: Believe that God’s timing is perfect, even when you don’t always understand it.

Just like Solomon didn’t give up, we must persevere. God’s plan for us is good, and as we persist, He will help us achieve our goals.