Due to technical difficulties, aka my computer crashing, my dreams post is a day late. So sorry, but I'm excited about these posts, mostly because if they don't encourage anyone else, they are challenging me.
Last week, I talked about how inspiration can spark the pursuit of a dream. This week, we will turn inspiration into action. Without a doubt, to convince others to aid you in pursuing your dream, you must first believe in yourself.
This weekend, I had tenth and eleventh grade girls at a DNow. It amazes me that after only a few short years of escape from high school, I forget the struggles and complexities of this stage. On our long drive back to our host home, we turned the music off and talked about dreams.
"What would you do if there were no limitations, no one to tell you that you can't? How do you feel the Lord has gifted you?"
Silence. Awkward silence. Thankfully, I've been trained for this. So like any good counselor, I told them no music until they spilled their guts.
Mission accomplished.
One by one, I was amazed that several of them had already been told their dreams were impossible or impractical. I wanted to scream at the adults that were already crushing young dreams. What the Lord truly calls us to is NEVER impossible.
So, meet Gideon. He belonged to the least important tribe and was the least important in his family. By his own admission. In his fear of the conquering country, Gideon is wasting his time at a menial task in an attempt to keep it from his masters. In the midst of this, the Lord appears, sits in front of Gideon and says, "The Lord is with you mighty warrior." (Judges 6:11-15)
This is one of the many, many things I love about the Lord. The Lord knew He would use Gideon in a mighty way as a warrior for His glory. He knew Gideon's credentials, looked past them, and saw His dreams for Gideon - who the Lord would make Him. From insignificant to a warrior.
Now, how are you feeling about yourself? I serve a God who sees the weak and impractical and makes them strong and possible. Don't sell yourself short! The Lord is in control and is fashioning you for His glory. Believe in yourself. Believe in Him. Then, sit back and watch the magic happen.
Still doubting? Check out Melanie Amaro. My new favorite vocal talent. She's a girl with a dream. And the best part? She's trusting Jesus with the results. I love that combination.
Last week, I talked about how inspiration can spark the pursuit of a dream. This week, we will turn inspiration into action. Without a doubt, to convince others to aid you in pursuing your dream, you must first believe in yourself.
This weekend, I had tenth and eleventh grade girls at a DNow. It amazes me that after only a few short years of escape from high school, I forget the struggles and complexities of this stage. On our long drive back to our host home, we turned the music off and talked about dreams.
"What would you do if there were no limitations, no one to tell you that you can't? How do you feel the Lord has gifted you?"
Mission accomplished.
One by one, I was amazed that several of them had already been told their dreams were impossible or impractical. I wanted to scream at the adults that were already crushing young dreams. What the Lord truly calls us to is NEVER impossible.
So, meet Gideon. He belonged to the least important tribe and was the least important in his family. By his own admission. In his fear of the conquering country, Gideon is wasting his time at a menial task in an attempt to keep it from his masters. In the midst of this, the Lord appears, sits in front of Gideon and says, "The Lord is with you mighty warrior." (Judges 6:11-15)
This is one of the many, many things I love about the Lord. The Lord knew He would use Gideon in a mighty way as a warrior for His glory. He knew Gideon's credentials, looked past them, and saw His dreams for Gideon - who the Lord would make Him. From insignificant to a warrior.
Now, how are you feeling about yourself? I serve a God who sees the weak and impractical and makes them strong and possible. Don't sell yourself short! The Lord is in control and is fashioning you for His glory. Believe in yourself. Believe in Him. Then, sit back and watch the magic happen.
Still doubting? Check out Melanie Amaro. My new favorite vocal talent. She's a girl with a dream. And the best part? She's trusting Jesus with the results. I love that combination.
© X Factor
Melanie began at the bottom of the totem pole, like Gideon. But she didn't stay there. She went on to win the X Factor and become America's next star.What limitations do you need to surrender this week? What dreams are you dreaming? Check back next Monday for more on dreaming big. I'm trusting the Lord with my journey. Will you? Leave a comment below or join the discussion on facebook! Let's encourage one another!
Good message, Kariss.
ReplyDeleteWhat a blessing to have an influence on that age group.
I'm reminded of the Scripture that says God gives us the desires of our hearts. These desires are our dreams, planted, nourished and encouraged by him so we can live our his plan for our lives. Thanks for the reminder to not let go of our dreams, of our vision of his plan.
ReplyDeleteIt makes me so sad to think of people dashing young girls' dreams. As the mama of a teen, I'd be tempted to be ugly if someone pulled that. Thank God for grace.
ReplyDeleteOh, I was tempted to be ugly to that adult. It was difficult to coach this young woman on how to handle it graciously but bodly while still respecting this adult. I applaud you as a mother of a teen for encouraging her dreams. Such a blessing. I pray your teen feels more equipped and encouraged to pursue their dreams because of your support! Thanks for stopping by!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your constant encouragement and for pursuing your dreams so diligently. You are a blessing and example to me!
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by, Julie! I too often think I am going to be a blessing and always walk away incredibly humbled and blessed by these teens instead.
ReplyDelete