The Dream Giver

Do you believe that God wants to give you the desires of your heart? Do you believe that our God is truly, a Dream Giver?

If you're anything like me, you've most likely had your doubts. Maybe you dreamed for so long that at some point, you gave up because it seemed as if no one was listening and nothing was happening.

Or maybe, you attempted to follow your dreams, only to have them trampled on by people.

Or, have you never allowed yourself to dream because you fear that only disappointment will come from allowing yourself to dream.

If any of the scenarios above sound familiar, don't worry, you are not alone. I too have been there. Let me explain.

Scenario #1-When I was 18 and on a mission trip to Venezuela, I truly felt the calling of God on my life. I knew beyond a shadow of doubt that God was calling me to full-time ministry. Well, it wasn't until 5-6 years later that God gave me the desires of my heart. Now, with that being said, He gave me part of my dream-not all of it. I'm still waiting for some of my dream to come to fruition. During the waiting period-I really questioned God and the calling He had on my life. I felt as if I was going nowhere. At one point I felt as though He was calling me to seminary and believe it or not, I almost didn't attend because I started questioning what God laid on my heart.

Know this-if God has placed something on your heart and you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that God has called you, hang in there! He will bring it about in His timing. And if for some reason your dreams not the dreams He has for you, ask Him to clearly show you what He dreams for your life. I can guarantee you, He will show you.

Scenario #2-Oh how I have experienced hurt from people. When God did give me the desires of my heart, I ended up being deeply hurt by people. Oh, did it hurt. I really questioned what God was doing because all I knew was that I wanted to make an impact in this world for Christ and here I was getting hurt by the very people I should have been able to lean on. I've dealt with this in the church and in my own ministry endeavors. It's never a fun experience to go through.

Scenario #3-While I've never felt as though I couldn't dream due to the fear of hurt and failure, I have to admit, there are times that I wonder whether or not it's worth it. Let me say this-it is well worth it! Again, if God has given you a dream, do not give up! I've been experiencing this this week with my dissertation for my doctoral degree. Yesterday was a bad day-I was ready to throw in the towel and say forget it. I was ready to give up on my dream of ever obtaining my doctorate. Let me give you the advice that many of my friends posted:

* take a breath-relax
* have some ice cream
* think of the positive outcome that will come about when you fulfill your dream
* DON'T GIVE UP!

So today I ask you, what are your dreams? Do you believe that God wants to give you the desires of your heart? What stands in the way of you believing that God wants to bless you? Do not allow impatience or people keep you from fulfilling what God has placed in your heart. God is faithful! He will do what He has promised to do!