The Arc enterpreneur podcast

Scripture: “Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap.” – Ecclesiastes 11:4

In business, hesitation can be a barrier to progress. We often hold back, waiting for perfect conditions before taking a step. We might delay starting a new venture, hiring a promising team member, or launching a new product, thinking, “The timing isn’t right” or “I need just a little more information.” This pattern is reflective of the “Law of Diminishing Intent”, which teaches that the longer we wait to act on a decision, the less likely we are to follow through.

The writer of Ecclesiastes speaks to this very human tendency in 11:4: “Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap.” This wisdom urges us to avoid endless waiting for ideal conditions before taking action. It reminds us that waiting for the “perfect” moment can paralyze us, keeping us from fulfilling God’s purpose and potential in our work and lives. Just as a farmer who waits for flawless weather may miss the planting season, we, too, risk missing opportunities that God places before us when we delay.

In business, there will rarely be a moment when everything is perfectly aligned. Risks are part of growth, and often, the biggest leaps forward come when we step out in faith despite uncertainty. When we feel a conviction to act — whether it’s starting a new project, investing in an idea, or reaching out to someone in need — let us respond without delay. Ignoring or overthinking these nudges only dulls our original intent, making it harder to act in the way we first intended.

Reflect today on an area where you may be “watching the wind” — perhaps a decision you’ve delayed or an opportunity you’re waiting to perfect. Pray for courage to move forward, trusting that God can work through imperfect situations and use our actions for His purpose. Ask God to reveal the areas where you need to act and give you the strength to step out in faith.

Remember, true success in business and life isn’t about waiting for perfect circumstances but about faithfully taking each step as God leads, even when the future isn’t fully clear. Through obedience, we unlock His blessings and find the satisfaction of sowing and reaping in His timing.

Reflection Questions:

1. What opportunities or decisions have I delayed, waiting for “perfect” conditions, and how might this be holding me back from God’s purpose?

1. How can I overcome my hesitation and move forward in faith, trusting that God will guide and provide even if the timing doesn’t feel ideal?

1. In what ways can I learn to recognize and act on God’s promptings without letting overthinking or fear cause me to miss His opportunities?

Author: Derek Stone