Ustaadh Moosaa Richardson explains the importance of the obligation to tie the mention of one's future plans to Allah's Decree by saying, "in shaa' Allah." He provides 17 benefits which should motivate and encourage those who underestimate the importance of this matter. A lecture delivered at al-Masjid al-Awwal in Pittsburgh on 1440.03.16.

A summary of the lecture:

EVIDENCES WHICH PROVE IT IS OBLIGATORY:

1. The people mentioned in Soorah Noon had their garden burned down after being reminded to say "in shaa' Allah" about reaping their harvests from it. (DEPRIVAL, DESTRUCTION)
2. Our Prophet (may Allah raise his rank and grant him peace) was scolded by Allah for not saying "in shaa' Allah" when he told people he would tell them answers to their questions the next day. (DEPRIVED OF REVELATION FOR 15 DAYS, BLAMED)
3. Sulaymaan was deprived of children when he said he would have intercourse will all his wives & concubines & have children who would fight in the way of Allah, he was reminded to say "in shaa' Allah", but did not.

BENEFITS:

1. Obedience to the command of Allah
2. Acting by the Book of Allah in your life.
3. Implementing the manners of the Messenger of Allah (may Allah raise his rank and grant him peace).
4. Manifesting our belief in Qadar. (& opposing those who deviated in issues of Qadar)
5. Another way to remain constantly attached to the remembrance of Allah.
6. Distance from uttering false statements.
7. Not speaking about the future without knowledge.
8. It helps you remember death.
9. Remembering Allah's Ruboobiyyah (Lordship & Control of the creation)
10. Remembering your need to seek Allah's Assistance
11. Allah makes your affairs easier.
12. Openly manifesting your religious identity (in non-Muslim lands).
13. Manifesting an open symbol of Ahlus-Sunnah, opposing Ahlul-Bid'ah.
14. Blessings in the actions in the future.
15. Protection of property.
16. Humbleness.
17. Harmony between one's heart and tongue.