“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it?” Luke 14:28

Good intentions are only good intentions if he who started a project was not able to finish it. Successful people are known for what they have completed and not because of their intentions only.

I believe that one of the greatest characteristics of God is his ability to finish. Philippians 1:6 says, “being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

God is a great finisher. Can we say the same about ourselves? How many times have we started things with good intentions, but did not finish?

Relationships have been dilapidated, friendships broken, money lost and time wasted because of people’s failure to count the cost prior to engaging. Focusing primarily on the outcome of the tower while failing to analyze the process in between is what leads to great starters who are poor finishers.

I have been in several homes where the previous owner started on a rehab, only to lose the home because he/she didn’t have enough to finish the investment. The end result was much worse than they planned.

There is a cost to being someone’s friend. I have found that many fail to consider the cost of true friendship. I find it much easier for someone to communicate upfront what their intentions are so I can tell them if I am able to reciprocate. Reciprocity is vital to any relationship.

You have a great vision, but do you have a great plan? Before you engage, please count the cost.

Ask yourself, “Do I have the time? Do I have the energy? Do I have the money?” Those questions are vital to the outcome of your investment.

Domenick Epps is a Suffolk resident, real estate agent and youth pastor. Email him at DomenickEpps.Realtor@gmail.com.