Before We Die
Years ago we were urged in a group to make a list of those things we would really like to happen before we die. I hasten to add that there were no signs that was about to happen! My wife and I made our list and over the coming days refined it and checked it out with God. It consisted of our desires and dreams that we believed He had given us. We then surrendered them to God and kept them close to our hearts.
I'll mention one, because it's one of those that has already come to be. It was something that seemed impossible at the time. We wanted to see our children's children and we now have five grandchildren, who are a great delight. Other items on the list are more far-reaching and personal and we are still waiting. Over time we have had to adjust our thinking. There have been decisions to make and steps to take, some of which have not been understood, but we have had to live with that. At times we have felt really encouraged, believing fruition was just around the corner. At other times we have felt out on a limb, like pioneers walking through treacle in a fog, wondering if we shouldn't go for a safe option, except there is no going back.
I was reading about Nehemiah last night. He had a God-given vision to rebuild Jerusalem. He fulfilled this dream with determination, despite the misunderstandings and aggressive opposition. I noted that each man was responsible for his own section of wall.
God sees the big picture. He is the Great Architect. All we have to do is follow what we believe He has given us. He knows what the future holds and it will all fit together when the time comes. To follow our dreams may seem risky, but I don't think I could live with the regret of having done nothing when it's too late.
"We grow great by dreams ... Some of us let these great dreams die, but others nourish and protect them; nurse them through bad days till they [flourish]; bring them to the sunshine and light, which comes always to those who sincerely hope that their dreams will come true." Woodrow Wilson
"And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions." Joel 2:28 New International Version
"So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart." Nehemiah 4:6 New International Version
I'll mention one, because it's one of those that has already come to be. It was something that seemed impossible at the time. We wanted to see our children's children and we now have five grandchildren, who are a great delight. Other items on the list are more far-reaching and personal and we are still waiting. Over time we have had to adjust our thinking. There have been decisions to make and steps to take, some of which have not been understood, but we have had to live with that. At times we have felt really encouraged, believing fruition was just around the corner. At other times we have felt out on a limb, like pioneers walking through treacle in a fog, wondering if we shouldn't go for a safe option, except there is no going back.
I was reading about Nehemiah last night. He had a God-given vision to rebuild Jerusalem. He fulfilled this dream with determination, despite the misunderstandings and aggressive opposition. I noted that each man was responsible for his own section of wall.
God sees the big picture. He is the Great Architect. All we have to do is follow what we believe He has given us. He knows what the future holds and it will all fit together when the time comes. To follow our dreams may seem risky, but I don't think I could live with the regret of having done nothing when it's too late.
"We grow great by dreams ... Some of us let these great dreams die, but others nourish and protect them; nurse them through bad days till they [flourish]; bring them to the sunshine and light, which comes always to those who sincerely hope that their dreams will come true." Woodrow Wilson
"And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions." Joel 2:28 New International Version
"So we rebuilt the wall till all of it reached half its height, for the people worked with all their heart." Nehemiah 4:6 New International Version
0 comments :
Post a Comment