Genesis 24:10-32 “Then the servant left, taking with him ten of his master’s camels loaded with all kinds of good things from his master … Then he prayed … the man watched her closely to learn whether or not the LORD had made his journey successful … Then he asked, ‘Whose daughter are you? … Then the man bowed down and worshiped the LORD … the man went to the house … “

This was a very important project for Eliezer and he got right to it. He faced the danger of travel and of being robbed or challenged. As a faithful man, he seemed to be fearless. It appears he was a man who trusted in the God of Abraham.

Principle: Planning, preparation and prayer are a combination for success.

The preparation and the presentation were beautifully done – pure strategic planning. Eliezer had a clearly defined mission, and his plan included a “natural” progression. He asked God for success for the right reason, not for self-glorifying.

Think through the details of your project. Follow the path of it and keep it moving forward. In truth, play the “best cards” at the right time. Full disclosure is best. Attempt a trial close at the right moment.

Discussion:

1. What is your response to the statement “true faith does not require planning”?

2. For Christian businessmen, what elements need to be attached to strategic planning?

3. Think of a specific example where plans done in a God honoring way succeeded, changed or failed. Why was it so?