Schemers

Planning is an extremely important step in every area of our lives. But problems arrive when our planning becomes scheming.
What's the difference between a planner and a schemer? The planner stamps across his outline for his life "If the will of God be so, I will do such and such." He gives up all rights to himself. He seeks God's will and allows God to bless in any way He chooses--to change any or all of his own plans. The schemer, on the other hand, simply says, "God, this is what I'm going to do." Then, forging ahead, he waits expectantly--and impatiently--for God's blessing on his life.
Jacob, for example, was a schemer; he lived a blessing-centered life. Instead of obeying God and trusting Him to fulfill His promises, Jacob went after the blessing himself, using his own plans--schemes. Jacob wanted God's blessing; he just didn't want God to be in control of his life. And you know what? God blessed him. By the time he left his Uncle Laban's house, he was rich in family and goods.
Jacob, however, despised those blessings. Fearing his brother Esau--doubting God's promise of protection--he sent all his blessings ahead of him--including the wives and kids--hoping that Esau would take them instead of killing him. A schemer always ends up despising the blessings God gives him.
Which are you? It's easy to tell. Make a list of all the things you want out of life. Then, put a check by everything you would give up willingly if God asked you to do so. The ones you don't have a check mark by are the "blessings" that will keep you from finding peace and contentment in life--the pearls you'll cast at the feet of Esau's horsemen thundering over the hill.