What does God’s Word have to say about that dream? This question keeps my heart focused on God’s desires and not just my own. If I am able to answer this question positively, I can move on to consider my dream more carefully. If my dream is contrary to the Word of God, I need to nix it!
How does my dream enhance or encourage others? This question ensures that I am outwardly focused and not selfishly focused. God will always call me to dreams that will ultimately not only benefit me but also others.
What obstacles might I encounter? What will be my plan for overcoming those obstacles? For example, I know God often calls me to a dream that is bigger than my resources. Along the way, I will likely encounter discouragement while pursuing the dream. Knowing that, I need a plan for when the moments of discouragement come. My plan might include things like surrounding myself with a group of people who can cheer me on when the going gets tough. I might develop a “praise playlist” that will remind me of God’s call to persevere.
What action steps do I need to take so I can move forward on realizing my dream? This question is imperative. If you don’t develop a plan, you likely won’t follow through, and your dream will never be realized. Think through and list specific action steps that will keep you on the road of transformation and progress. Find someone who can hold you accountable for your forward motion. What I’ve discovered is that the road to fulfilling my dreams is as important as the dream itself because God values the process of transformation in my life.
This week, my challenge to you is to set aside even a few hours to dream. I’d love to hear from you. Let’s dream together. What is one desire that God has put in your heart?
