“The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty. Proverbs 21:5 (NKJV)

Many believers desire growth in finances, ministry, relationships, and purpose. But increase doesn’t come by desire alone—it follows planning, diligence, and God’s favor. Today, let’s explore how planning, aligned with God’s will, is a divine key to increase. God Is a Master Planner “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV). From creation, God had a plan (Genesis 1 shows a step-by-step approach). He didn’t create man before preparing the earth—He is methodical and intentional. Strategic thinking and planning aren’t unspiritual—it’s biblical. If God plans, we must also plan. Some people believe that planning is merely a secular activity, but the Bible is full of examples of God honoring strategic, and spirit-led planning. The truth is, God desires not only for us to have vision but also to have a plan to bring that vision to life. God doesn’t do anything randomly. Creation itself was strategic and was done in stages, with purpose and order. If we are made in His image, then we are also designed to plan and act with intention.

 “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost…?” Luke 14:28–30 (NIV)

Jesus Himself taught the importance of counting the cost—planning before doing. Faith and planning are not opposites—planning is faith in action. If you are believing God for increase, you must start by planning for it. Jesus teaches the value of counting the cost—that is planning. Many fail not because of a lack of vision but because of a lack of planning. Vision without a plan is a dream; vision with a plan becomes destiny

 “The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty…” Proverbs 21:5

“Plenty” here refers to abundance, prosperity, overflow while Diligence refers to consistence, careful, and committed effort over time. “Diligent” means intentional, careful, and consistent. Strategic planning includes prayerful alignment with God’s will. Clarity of purpose and goals. Preparation for both opportunity and opposition. Planning without follow-through leads to frustration. But diligence brings manifestation. You must write down your vision (Habakkuk 2:2). Create steps. Set goals. Review and revise them prayerfully. Increase doesn’t just happen; it is the result of intentional planning and faithful execution. God honors plan that are built through prayer, wisdom, and faith. Any planning without God will be futile “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Proverbs 16:9 (NIV). We must submit our plans to God for direction. Not all growth is godly increase. Make sure your plans are God-led. “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” Psalm 127:1. Prayer and planning go hand in hand.

“Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established. Proverbs 16:3

We don’t plan apart from God; we plan with God. Strategic planning is not carnal—it’s spiritual when done in alignment with God’s word and Spirit. The Holy Spirit doesn’t cancel planning—He guides it. Strategic planning is a biblical principle and a practical necessity. When we plan under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we position ourselves for increase, stability, and impact. Planning is not just good business—it’s Kingdom strategy. If we want to see increase, we must: Think like God strategically and purposefully. Act in faith, be diligent and stay surrendered by letting God lead and correct our course.

Our call to action: What areas of your life lack a plan? Finances, ministry, family, career? This week, take time in prayer and begin a God-led planning process. Your increase may be waiting on your plan.

Prayer of the Day: Father in the name of Jesus, I trust in you with all of my heart, and I refused to lean unto my own understanding. I declare that I acknowledge you in all of my plannings and I receive strategy for execution that will lead to divine increase.