Placing God first
For our work in development to be successful, we need to place God first in every-thing we do. However, material things often take first place in our lives in such a way that sometimes these become our god. Instead, make the book of Proverbs the standard for your action. It suggests numerous principles which may help our work for God to prosper.
Read Proverbs 3:1-10
We need to trust in God with all our hearts and souls and not in man or our own abilities. In facing all of life's circumstances, we must continue to believe, to pray and to put into practice the Word of God. Then he will keep us in good health and help us to prosper.
Read Proverbs 4:7-9
Our effectiveness in the work we do is determined by our wisdom – in other words, how we apply the knowledge we have. Wisdom means putting into practice all the theories and rules we have learnt. Wisdom shapes our success and achievements in both home and work – it is the key to total success. Wisdom does not mean the knowledge of modern science, geography or history. Wisdom and applied knowledge start with God. Wisdom will provide for your needs, bring you happiness and assure you a crown of glory in heaven.
Read Proverbs 9:10-12
Wisdom is first of all about respecting and fearing God. For many people, their work comes first. But the effectiveness of our work depends on the priority that a development worker gives to God, who gives all-important wisdom. Wisdom that comes from God prolongs life, brings rewards and assures good health. It enables a person to grow and to achieve good results.
Read Proverbs 29:25
Why trust only in men rather than God? Putting our trust in men may be a snare for development workers. These verses should be our mark at all times.
Read Proverbs 16:3 and 9
These two verses tell us how to give God first place. He will show us the way to follow for achievement and success, even in the smallest details.
Our work is in vain if God is not at the head of all our projects and if we do not place him at the centre of our work. It is pointless to rise early and to work as late as possible unless we do it for God (Psalm 127:1-2).
M Abdou Yaba Diop of Senegal is a faithful reader of Pas à Pas and uses each issue to draw out lessons to use in his work. His address is BP 50, Khombole, Senegal.
