Look Your Dreams Right In The Eyes

What dreams are you chasing? 
Do they look menacing and intimidating as you look at them?  Do they cast a shadow as you look at them?

They should.
They must. 
If they don’t, they aren’t worth chasing.

We often conceive big dreams big, but then at the first sign of adversity we retreat back into the comfort of mediocrity. I

Don’t do it! 
Chase your dreams.
Pursue your dreams.

Look your dreams square in the eyes and go to work moment by moment to make them a reality.

The purpose of life is not to arrive safely at the end of your journey.  If you just look for the safe path you will be turning your back on dreams that are bigger than you are and you will settle for the status quo.

So hear you are with a decision to make. Pursue and chase your dreams, or turn and run away.  If you run away you will be running away the rest of your life.

It’s time to pursue.

I’m cheering for you.

Questions to Ponder and Pursue

1.  What happens if you shrink from pursuing dreams that initially seemed daunting?

2.  How does embracing discomfort and adversity contribute to the pursuit of meaningful goals?

Certainty Amidst Uncertainty

Matthew 19:26 ESV‬

[26] But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible“. 

In the journey of pursuing your dreams, there are moments when the path ahead seems insurmountable, and doubts begin to cloud your mind.  Yet, in those moments of uncertainty, draw strength from the words of Jesus. 

Matthew 19:26 will remind you that with man, many dreams may appear impossible to achieve.  The obstacles before you may seem too daunting, the challenges too overwhelming. 

But in the face of these seemingly insurmountable odds, Jesus assures you of a truth that transcends human limitations: “With God, all things are possible.”

As a follower of Christ, you are called to live a  life of faith, courage, and perseverance.  You are called to trust in the power of the Creator, who holds the universe in His hands. 

When you align your dreams with God’s purpose for your life, there is no limit to what you can accomplish.

So, my friend, do not be discouraged by the enormity of your dreams.  Do not allow fear to paralyze you or doubts to hold you back. 

Instead, press on with unwavering faith, knowing that your Heavenly Father is with you every step of the way.

When the road ahead seems long and difficult, remember that God is your ever-present help in times of need. 

No matter how impossible your dreams may seem, trust in the power of God to make them a reality.  With His strength, His guidance, and His unfailing love, there is nothing that can stand in the way of His plans for your life.

So, rise up with renewed determination and faith.  Continue to pursue your dreams with boldness and confidence, knowing that with God, all things are possible.

Be Blessed!

Questions to Ponder and Pursue 

1.  How can the belief in God’s power to make all things possible influence your approach to pursuing your dreams?

2.  In what ways can you cultivate unwavering faith in God amidst challenges and doubts while chasing your dreams?

Go After Your Dreams

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?

The Pursuit of Dreams

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?

Here For This Moment

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?