But align them with God’s plans for you.  Then they are beautiful and meaningful dreams.

I am a fan of American Idol…again.  Deb and I enjoy watching the amazing talent that these young people have.  Absolutely terrific talent.

In one episode last year Luke Bryan had the final 10 contestants at one of his concerts and was talking to them all on his tour bus when he dropped this quote. 

“Don’t outrun your dreams.  Take a step back to enjoy the little things along the way.”

It is great advice whether you are a 20 year old aspiring American Idol, a 60+ year old pursuing new dreams, or anyone in between, or even beyond the age of 60.

I believe that what Luke was telling them was that they also need to make sure to keep the proper perspective. 

We only get one chance at this life.  Don’t run so fast after your dreams that you miss what really matters. 

What really matters may look a little different to each of us, so whatever it is that matters to you keep those things within reach, even as you run after your dreams.

I’m cheering for you.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can you ensure that in the pursuit of your dreams, you maintain a balance between ambition and appreciating the present moment, as Luke Bryan advises to not miss what really matters in life?

2.  Reflecting on Luke Bryan’s advice, what strategies can you employ to identify and prioritize what truly matters to us personally, while actively pursuing your dreams and aspirations?

Matthew 6:33 ESV‬

[33] But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

As Christ followers, we are called to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.  

This timeless directive reminds us that our pursuit of dreams should align with God’s perfect plan for our lives.  When we prioritize seeking God’s will above our own desires, we open ourselves to His divine guidance and provision.

In the journey of pursuing your dreams, it’s easy to become consumed by earthly ambitions and lose sight of your spiritual calling. 

However, when you keep your focus on God’s kingdom, you will find true fulfillment and purpose. 

Every dream you pursue becomes an opportunity to glorify God and serve His purposes on earth.

Be inspired by the words of Matthew 6:33 to persistently seek God’s will in all that you do. As you align your dreams with His divine plan, you can trust that He will lead you to paths of righteousness and abundance. 

Keep pursuing the dreams God has planted in your heart, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill them in His perfect timing.

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can you ensure that your pursuit of dreams aligns with God’s kingdom and righteousness, as emphasized in Matthew 6:33?

2.  What practical steps can you take to maintain a balance between pursuing your dreams and prioritizing your spiritual walk with God?

In the last few weeks we have thought about the pursuit of change, growth and moments.  Now, let’s spend some time thinking about pursuing dreams. 

Dreams are the deep aspirations, desires, and visions that you and I hold in our hearts.  Dreams, when aligned right, put into our heart by God.

In the next few writings I want to challenge you to dream, but not just dream for yourself, but search for the dreams God wants for you. 

Dreams are a combination of your aspirations and the whispers of God’s promise. They serve as the compass guiding you through uncharted territories and the divine calling urging you to embrace your purpose.

Embrace your dreams with unwavering determination, for they are the blueprints of your destiny and the visions God has placed in your heart.  Let them ignite the fire within you, fueling your journey with passion and purpose.

Chase your dreams fearlessly, for in the pursuit, you discover your strength, resilience, and the limitless possibilities of the spirit inside of you.

Trust in God’s timing, provision, and infinite wisdom as you boldly pursue your dreams, for His plans for you are greater than you can imagine.

Hold fast to your dreams, surrendering them to His will, and watch as He brings them to fruition in His perfect time.

Keep dreaming, keep believing, for the world awaits the beauty only you, as a leader and Christ follower, can create.

Pursue Your Dreams.

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can you distinguish between your own aspirations and the whispers of God’s promises when discerning your dreams?

2.  What steps can you take to align your pursuit of dreams with God’s will and purpose for your life?

Do you believe you’ve been adequately prepared for this moment?  For a situation in front of you right now?  You have.

Leadership demands adaptability.  It requires adjustment.  It thrives on overcoming challenges.

While circumstances may shift dramatically and swiftly, the response of determined, thoughtful leaders remains steadfast, rooted in their consistent day-to-day preparation.

You stand here ready to lead in this moment because of the daily efforts you’ve invested up to this point.

You’ve adapted, overcome, and consistently made thoughtful decisions.  Don’t waver from that now.

Though this moment may feel more intense, you are equipped and capable.  Forge ahead, leading through it.

You’re exactly where you’re meant to be.  Right here for this moment.

I’m cheering for you.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How does consistent day-to-day preparation contribute to effective leadership during challenging moments?

2.  In what ways can leaders maintain their adaptability and thoughtfulness in decision-making despite rapidly changing circumstances?

Philippians 4:13 ESV‬‬
[13] I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

As you continue to grow in your leadership, is your faith part of the thread that weaves resilience and determination?

Philippians 4:13 provides a great reminder within your challenges, reminding you that your strength is not solitary, and not just of human strength, but sourced from a higher power.

When faced with adversity and the path ahead seems daunting, it is this unwavering faith that can continue to propel you forward.

With each step, you can draw upon the timeless truths of biblical truth and guidance, finding courage to face the unknown and tenacity to conquer what seems insurmountable.

Amidst the chaos of uncertainty, you can stand firm, anchored by the belief that you are not alone in your journey.

Every trial becomes an opportunity for growth, every setback a stepping stone towards greatness.

Through your faith, you defy limitations, embodying the epitome of perseverance and grace.

Empowered by the promise of Philippians 4:13, you can push ahead, knowing that with Him, all things are possible, and with a strength not your own.

That makes your moments not just manageable, but more memorable and magnificent. 

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  Reflecting on your leadership journey, how has your faith played a role in cultivating resilience and determination amidst challenges?

2.  When confronted with adversity, do you actively draw upon your faith as a source of strength and guidance, or do you rely solely on human abilities?

Every Day is special.

Every day is an opportunity.

Every day is new.

Every day is unique.

Every day is a gift.

This is not just any day.  This is a day that will never happen again.  The moments you are about to experience will happen only once.

This is a day that needs you.  You don’t know where, you don’t know how, and you don’t know when, but you need to be ready for this once in a lifetime day.

This isn’t just any day.  This could be THE day.  Be ready and enjoy it.

I’m cheering for you.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can we cultivate a mindset that appreciates the uniqueness and potential of each day?

2.  What practical steps can we take to approach each day with readiness and openness to embrace the opportunities it presents?

Rejoicing in Today: Finding Joy in God’s Daily Gifts

‭Psalm 118:24 ESV‬
[24] This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

As a Christ follower, let the words of Psalm 118:24 resonate deeply in your heart.  Each day is a precious gift from the Lord, filled with countless opportunities to experience His love, grace, and presence.

In the hustle and bustle of life, it’s easy to overlook the significance of the present moment.  Yet, this verse reminds you to pause, to reflect, and to rejoice in the day that the Lord has made.

Today is not just another day on the calendar; it is a divine appointment with the Creator of the universe.

It is a day filled with possibilities, blessings, and moments to glorify God in all that you do.

Embrace each day with gratitude, with faith, and with a heart full of joy.  Seize the opportunities before you to spread love, kindness, and hope to those around you.

In doing so, you honor the One who has made this day possible.  So, rejoice and be glad in it, for this is the day that the Lord has made!

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How can you cultivate a mindset of gratitude and joy in recognizing each day as a gift from the Lord?

2. What practical steps can you take to live each day intentionally, embracing the opportunities it presents to glorify God and spread His love to others?

Eleanor Roosevelt achieved a lot in her life and was asked once how she was able to accomplish so much in her lifetime.  

She responded by saying “I never waste time with regrets.”

How much time do we waste thinking about and living with things that have happened, either to us or because of our own actions?

Too much time?

A regret is a feeling of sadness, repentance, or disappointment over something that has happened or been done, especially a loss or missed opportunity. 

Being able to overcome those things takes strength, courage and intentional repeated actions because, as much as we would like them not to, tough things are going to happen and we will mess up plenty on our own. 

But that doesn’t have to be the end of the story.  Living in the moment requires learning from the past, but not living in it or with regrets of what we experienced or what we did, or did not do. 

We will be at our best, continue to become more, and contribute more positively to those around us when we, like Eleanor Roosevelt, do not waste time with regrets. 

Do your best to move on and be engaged in the moments in front of you today.  Those are the moments that matter most. 

I’m cheering for you. 

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How does dwelling on past regrets hinder our ability to live fully in the present and contribute positively to our lives and the lives of others?

2.  What strategies can individuals employ to cultivate a mindset like Eleanor Roosevelt’s, where they do not waste time with regrets but instead focus on learning from the past and being fully engaged in the present moment?

Philippians 3:13 ESV‬

“Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.”

In Philippians 3:13, the Apostle Paul reflects on his own journey of faith, acknowledging that he has not yet reached the pinnacle of spiritual maturity. 

Despite this, he emphasizes a singular focus: forgetting what lies behind and pressing forward toward what lies ahead. 

This verse highlights a timeless truth applicable to all aspects of life.  By letting go of past regrets, mistakes, and failures, individuals can free themselves from the burden of what cannot be changed. 

Instead, you are encouraged to channel your energy and efforts towards the present moment and the opportunities that await in the future. 

It’s a call to action, urging you to embrace each day with renewed determination and hope, knowing that God’s grace sustains you and His plans for you are filled with promise. 

In essence, Philippians 3:13 inspires a mindset of resilience, perseverance, and forward motion, essential for navigating life’s challenges and fulfilling your purpose.

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  How does the Christian faith inform your understanding of the importance of leaving behind past regrets and focusing on moving forward in your journey with God?

     a.  Is their anything in your life that you need to leave behind?

2.  In what ways do prayer, scripture study, and fellowship with other believers empower Christians to embody the principle of pressing forward in faith, despite past mistakes or hardships?