Dreams and Divine Plans

The Journey to Nebraska Christian College

May 2, 2024

(Part 2)

Jeremiah 29:11 ESV‬

[11] For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 

In 1999, I found myself at a crossroads, feeling uneasy and burnt out from my job in K-12 Physical Education.  There was a sense that I was meant for something more, but I couldn’t pinpoint exactly what that was.  I knew I needed a new challenge, but the path ahead seemed unclear. 

The thought of taking on more responsibility, perhaps as an athletic director, seemed like a distant dream, especially with my friend holding that role in Manning.  Opportunities for advancement were slim.

One day, I came across a job posting for a coaching position at Nebraska Christian College in Norfolk, NE.  This opportunity was intriguing for several reasons—it was where my parents had graduated, my sister had attended, and it was located in the city where I was born. 

Coaching college basketball and taking on the role of athletic director were not just any positions; they were dream jobs that combined my passion for sports with my desire to lead and make a difference.

Despite the excitement, I was hesitant. Should I uproot my family, leave behind our close-knit community, and pursue a dream that could turn out differently from what I imagined? 

I remember sitting at the dining room table on a Saturday morning, reading a devotional, when I came across Jeremiah 29:11—”For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” 

This scripture spoke to my heart, giving me the reassurance I needed to pursue my dream.  It was the nudge I needed to move forward, knowing that God was leading the way.With newfound clarity, my family and I decided to take the leap, and we moved to Norfolk in the summer of 1999. 

Those two years at Nebraska Christian College turned out to be more than I could have hoped for—they became a defining chapter in my journey, impacting not only my career but also my family’s future. 

Here’s how our dreams intertwined with God’s plans:

A Family Connection: 

My oldest daughter got to know the college during our time in Norfolk and later decided to attend there.  It’s also where she met her future husband.  This connection felt like part of God’s plan, a dream that He orchestrated in ways we couldn’t have anticipated.

Spiritual Growth and Mentorship: 

My friend Shane Coop, the worship pastor at First Christian Church, introduced me to contemporary worship music and showed me what authentic worship looks like.  His mentorship was a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey, expanding my understanding of faith and worship.  It felt like a dream to work with someone who could guide me in such a meaningful way.

Coaching and Impact: 

Coaching college basketball was a long-held dream that I was able to realize at Nebraska Christian College.  Despite being a smaller college, it was still a significant opportunity to mentor and guide young athletes.  I was able to witness these young men grow, mature, and find success in their careers and personal lives.  It’s humbling to see how God used our time there to shape the lives of others.

The Gift of Experience: 

The role of Athletic Director, Dean of Students, and a college basketball coach allowed me to gain valuable administrative experience, setting the foundation for future leadership roles.  It was a dream come true to be in a position where I could make a difference and not have to ask “What if?” for the rest of my career.

Our time in Norfolk may have been brief, but the impact was lasting.  Jeremiah 29:11 became a life verse for me, a constant reminder that God’s plans are filled with hope and a future.  

The dream of coaching college basketball, beginning my journey as an athletic director, and leading a team became a reality, all because I took a step of faith and trusted in God’s guidance.

Dreams can sometimes feel distant or out of reach, but when we align our dreams with God’s will, we can see the beauty of His perfect plan. 

As you pursue your own dreams, remember that God’s timing is always perfect, and even the briefest moments can have a profound impact on the rest of your life. 

Trust in Him, embrace the journey, and be blessed as you follow the path He has set for you.

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue 

1.  How have seemingly brief or unexpected experiences in your life contributed to the fulfillment of your dreams, and how did you recognize God’s guidance in those moments?

2.  Reflecting on Jeremiah 29:11, what steps can you take to align your dreams with God’s plans, and how can you find reassurance during times of uncertainty or transition?