El hombre propone y Dios dispone. That’s a common phrase for Spanish speakers. It can be translated,
“People can make plans; God determines how things will turn out” (The Dictionary of Cultural Literacy).

El Hombre Propone.
We are in a time of planning and discernment. Newly-organized boards and committees are making plans
for the rest of the year. Plans continue the process for the sale of a portion of our real estate. The Pastoral Search
Committee is reorganizing and re-energizing to continue the search for a full-time permanent pastor. Your pastor
is rethinking what an extended interim period looks like. Another Search Committee is looking for a Youth and
Young Adult Ministry Director. This coordinates with all the personal plans and goals of each individual member.

Dios Dispone.
As Christians we trust the Lord for guidance and direction. We seek the Lord’s will for us. We bathe our
plans and proposals in prayer. We spend time developing our planning with other faithful believers. Sometimes
we wonder what God is thinking when we have to modify our plans.

Proverbs 16 begins with these words, “To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes
the proper answer of the tongue” (NIV). Verse 9 restates the theme, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but
the Lord establishes their steps.”

Verse 3 reminds us to, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” As we
proceed it is helpful to do a “commitment check”. Evaluate our relationship with the Lord and with each other.
Are we committed to God’s overall plan for this world? Are we faithful followers of our Lord Jesus Christ?
Verse 16 calls us to review our priorities; “How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather
than silver!” We have to admit that the things that we feel are important may not always be what God gives importance to.

Verses 20 and 21 remind us that everything we do with God should be a learning experience. “Whoever
gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord. The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction.”
There is much more wisdom in this chapter of Proverbs. It’s worth a read. As we move forward, my prayer is that God’s will be done. It’s easier said than done. 1 Chronicles 15:7 reminds God’s people, “But as for you,
be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.”

Pastor Steve