“If you build it…”

“If you build it, they will come.”

This saying only works in the movies—probably it’s not called Field of DREAMS for no reason. The principle doesn’t cross over into other areas either:

“If you write it, they will read.” Any author will tell you otherwise.

“If you cook it, they will eat.” And every mother laughs out loud.

“If you speak it, they will listen.” We all have experience telling us this is not the case.

“If you preach it, they will listen.” Hm.

“If you build a church building, they will come.”

Just because we do something doesn’t mean it will get the response we are hoping for or expecting. Just because it worked one way somewhere else doesn’t mean it will work that way here. Just because we work hard at it doesn’t mean it will succeed.

“The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” — Proverbs 16:9

How important then to listen to the LORD first. If we obey, then He will establish our steps. This principle holds true.