Rescuing Dreams

As I boarded the plane to leave Alaska; I was so renewed in my heart and spirit.  Besides being with my best friends from college, I would never forget my encounter with God.  Without my family being present on this trip, I was on a mission to hear from God.  Through the encouragement of my husband, I had a complete week without having to chase three toddlers, my job, and household responsibilities.  I admit, I was concerned if my husband could handle all of this without me.  Yet, he knew I desperately need to hear from God. 
 

Before my best friends called, I was deeply hurt from a pastor who offered me a position.  Without confronting me or advising of his decision to look for another youth pastor, he announced to the church, “We are taking resumes.” It hurt very deep.  Questions, anger, and doubt overwhelmed me about the whole situation.  Did God call me into ministry?  Why did I move to Florida?  Did I hear God at all?  Or did I fail God?  It was a pivotal moment; I was questioning God’s call.  Besides questioning the call, I was wrestling with a broken heart.  Nothing would quench my soul except the presence of God; I need to be with Him.  As I wept in His presence, I couldn’t speak.  If I spoke, the words were few, far, and between.  Although my heart was at peace; my questions were not answered. 

Shortly after praying the phone rang, it was my best friend who was used to bring God’s truth to my life.  Besides being delighted to hear from my best friend, our conversation was about life, ministry, and my calling.  As he spoke into my life, God was confirming the truth of what I asked.  Yet as the hurt emerged within, I wouldn’t accept it.  After the phone call I wasn’t sure how to feel, so I talked to my husband.  My husband wasn’t only thrilled with idea; he was ready to pack his bags.  Still I wasn’t convinced about this opportunity.  A few weeks later, our best friends called to advise me I was flying to Alaska to discuss it.  So, I went to discuss future plans but I was very desperate to hear from God.  When we are desperate, willing to listen, and available to God, He will speak.  Not only did God speak to my broken heart, He healed my soul. 

 As I walked unto the plane, my countenance was completely changed.  I couldn’t wait to fly home to share what God did.  Nevertheless, God wasn’t done with me.  As I started to journal about my trip, God interrupted me with a vision.  Overjoyed with all of the plans, I wrote with eagerness and excitement.  If it wasn’t for the captain’s announcement, “We are now arriving in Tampa,” I wouldn’t believe I spent thirteen hours writing.  When I arrived home I was renewed, empowered, and focused for our future.

 After sharing this vision with my husband, we accepted God’s direction for our future.  However, I was starting to feel overwhelmed with this vision.  How could I do this?  Where do I begin?  Who was I?  After accepting the call; we instantly got thrown into the fire.  Satan decided to test our hearts severely with physical and financial issues.  It was the darkest period of my life but the vision kept my heart alive. 

As the embers of the vision burned, I was waiting for God’s timing.  Upon a Wednesday night service, the vision would capture my life again.  A wonderful missionary couple came to share their vision with us.  Besides sharing their vision, it awakened mine.  While the couple shared their heart for Alaska, I was taken back to the plane ride.  As he preached his message “Rescuing Dreams,” with us I couldn’t stop crying.  If God wanted to paint a bull’s eye upon my forehead, He did.  As the missionary shared his message, God brought unquestionable confirmation upon my heart. 

 

Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”

So, if you are wondering if God’s vision is real?  His message brought some wonderful truth; I want to share with you.

1.        Every dream of God is bigger than you.

2.       You can let it go but it will not let go of you.

3.       Willing to sacrifice for it.

4.       Last forever (It involves people)

5.       It meets a need that nobody else is doing

When we receive God’s call; it’s not only a wonderful blessing it’s a daily sacrifice of our wills.  For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable. (Romans 11:29)  If we feel uncertain about it; God will confirm it.  Like Samuel, God may have to repeat our name or the call until we recognize His voice.  Or we could feel as Moses, completely incapable of the task.  God’s call is a precious gift, it’s our personal assignment.  So, cherish it deeply but don’t be afraid to walk towards it.  Although we may feel unsure, God will direct our steps.  We just have to be ready, willing, and able to follow His voice. 

 

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.” Psalm 32:8