Chapter 7
A Time To Plan
First Corinthians 16:1-4 shows that the taking in and the disbursement of gifts should not be haphazard. This principle also applies to the relief and rehabilitation process. Proverbs says that wars need to be waged with proper plans and advice so that the wisest strategies are adopted (Prov. 20:18; 24:6). This applies to the “war” on the needs of people. Much time, energy, and resources can be wasted because of a lack of planning. Many needy people could miss the aid they should get and some could get more than they need—all because of poor planning.
Planning is especially needed when we move from meeting emergency needs to beginning the reconstruction process. It’s wise for smaller groups to partner with others. When we join with other churches and groups, we have a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate the unity we share in Christ.
Churches are often gifted with willing and able people. That could be an important resource to give to specialist groups who have the funds and the expertise for relief and rehabilitation but do not have enough people. This is one of those situations in which the principle of Ecclesiastes 4:9 applies: “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.” Most of us are not equipped or knowledgeable enough to do the most effective job on our own. So it’s wise for us to partner with others.
This may also be a time for us to show our commitment to those in need by helping other groups who are not connected with the church. We are citizens of two worlds. So everything we do in both worlds we do for God and for His glory (1 Cor. 10:31). The jobs we do in so-called “secular” institutions we are to do primarily for God. We can consider our job important because it goes to serve the community where God has placed us as His witnesses. The same principle applies when we serve the community through relief and rehabilitation projects organized by neighborhood groups or the government. We should look for opportunities to join with our neighbors in their projects so that we can represent Christ.
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