To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven Ecclesiastes 3:1 (KJV)
Life’s journey is punctuated with different kinds of seasons and times. There are seasons of laughter and times of sadness. With each season we make proposals to either affirm the present position or change the unpleasant situation. By definition, propose means, to declare a purpose or intention. As an acronym, it means Permission to Relate Openly and Purpose to Optimize the Savior’s Experience. Truly, we declare our intention and purposes when we make proposals at different times and seasons of our life. We do so when we chose our schools, professions, ministry and other relationships. The word propose is commonly used when one intends to have a life long relationship with his spouse. Any time one proposes, one declares an intention to openly relate to the spouse and purpose to optimize their experience in the Savior’s truth. However there are occasions when we make such proposals without having the full understanding of what we have declared. One may be infatuated or may have selfish ambitions.
We often do not realize that our proposals must align with the purposes of the Almighty as scriptures strongly advises. First, Solomon declares, “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand (Proverbs 19:21), second The Lord blocks the plans of the nations. He frustrates the schemes of the people of the world as The Lord’s plan stands firm forever and His thoughts stand firm in every generation (Psalm 33:10-11 paraphrased) The question is, When we make our proposals, do we at anytime in the process of putting the ideas together align them with the plans of God or not? The above scriptures clearly warns us about our own plans and purposes and categorically declares that the purpose of God will be established. Do you know your season? Do you know your time? Have you made any proposals to your spouse? Have you set out a business plan? Have you set out your goals? Be sure that the purposes of these are in line with those of God. If not you will become frustrated and experience the old adage which says, “Man proposes and God disposes”
Do not allow this to be your experience. Beware of Jeremiah’s warning, “Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, who rely on human strength and turn their hearts away from the Lord” (Jeremiah 17:5, NLT) and learn to apply Solomon’s sound advice which states, “Place your trust in the Eternal; rely on Him completely; never depend upon your own ideas and inventions. Agree with Him in all your ways, and He will make your paths straight.(Proverbs 3:5-6). As you propose to your spouse, make a business proposal, ministry or any other engagements ensure that your purpose is to maximize your experiences with the Savior. As you seek permission to relate openly and purpose to optimize your experiences with the Savior, may His grace abound to you. Amen
Dr. Rex
