Learn To Adapt

To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. 1 Corinthians 9:22

Paul’s passion was winning souls to Christ. But he understood that people must be reached in different ways, so he constantly adapted his approach to them. Now apply that same principle to your life, career, or calling. Is your outlook fixed, or is it flexible? General George S. Patton Jr. said, ‘Successful generals make plans to fit circumstances, but do not try to create circumstances to fit plans.’ When you have a clear plan for reaching your destination, there’s a danger of becoming inflexible and trying to stick with it no matter what. Sometimes it’s wiser to explore other options. When you’re having a hard time moving forward, don’t be quick to revise your dream. Revise your plan instead. Peter Drucker said, ‘The question that faces the strategic decision-maker is not what his organization should do tomorrow. It is, “What do we have to do today to be ready for an uncertain tomorrow?”’ The best way to face the uncertainty of tomorrow is to put your full faith in God, remain flexible, and consider your options as events unfold. The Psalmist said,‘ The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord’ (Psalms 37:23). Clinton Utterbach said, ‘The steps and the stops of a good man are ordered by the Lord.’ Paul’s plan called for going to a certain place, ‘But the Spirit…would not allow them to’ (Acts 16:7). Instead, God opened up new territory for him elsewhere. A rigid mindset won’t serve you well when you’re trying to fulfil your God-given assignment. So be open, stay flexible, and learn to adapt.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be flexible so that I can rely on You for working out the details and plans You have set and not think that you have to work with my plans. In Jesus’ Name, Amen