In the Marine Corps we described the battlefield with the phrase, “Fog of War.”

It means that there are always myriads of variables and moving pieces on the battlefield which can not possibly be comprehended in real time—thus creating the “fog of war.”

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In this type of environment, we were taught several decision-making strategies.

It is much better to act decisively with 70% of the information than to wait for 100% of the information and act indecisively.

Also, we must always be ready to ‘improvise, adapt, and overcome.’

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Key to decision-making in this ever-changing, stressful environment is to understand and act upon what is called ‘the commander’s intent.’

Leaders can alter the plan on the fly because what really matters is not ‘how’ the commander’s objective is met but ‘that’ it is met.

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In some ways I think we are all now facing a battlefield-type “fog of war,” where there are thousands of unknown variables. And the situation is constantly changing.

Key to success in this environment is being grounded by a set of guiding principles to meet clear objectives.

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In my case as a pastor and minister of the gospel, Scripture is clear on the objectives or the “commander’s intent” that I am supposed to accomplish given to me by Christ.

But the ‘how’ I do that is now changing and will constantly be changing in the days and weeks ahead.

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I think flexibility and decisiveness are key in this moment. Not waiting for all the information, but acting with the information you already have.

An imperfect plan executed decisively is exponentially better than a perfect plan executed too late.

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And in all of this—praying for wisdom and depending on the Lord and seeking advice from a multitude of friends and counselors has been important.

I praise God that I am in a church led by a plurality of elders.

But that is how I have been trying to navigate these days.

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