At what costs should we pursue our dreams? What will be required of me as I pursue the dream God has given me?
In part three of our dream series, we will discuss the costs of dreams- if you haven’t read the previous posts, you can view them here (part 1) & (part 2).
In Genesis 37, we read of how Joseph’s brothers heard of his dreams and devised a plot to prevent his dreams from coming to pass.
As we read further in Genesis, we see that Joseph’s dreams did come to fruition, but not without them costing him something. No matter what dream God has given you, you must be willing for it to cost you something. Say it with me… “sacrifice” (some of it will be voluntary and some will be given to you au gratis by God). You will thank him later.
1. Joseph’s Dream Cost Him Relationships
I know, I know…who wants to lose people that you deem close and dear to you? For most of us, this is a painful process. Many times, in pursuit of the dreams given to us by God, we have to part ways with some people. In Joseph’s case, he lost family. All of us won’t necessarily lose our family, but we will lose people we cherish, people that we don’t necessarily want to let go of and some that we are more than happy to say goodbye to. In most cases, like in Joseph’s case, the separation is not always final. God will allow some people to come back into your life after he has deposited some things in you, and started His work in you.
2. Joseph’s Dreams Cost Him Some Precious Possessions
In Genesis 37:23, Joseph was stripped of his coat- a prized possession from his father. Likewise, we have to be wiling to lose something valuable in order for our dreams to be realized. I’m guilty of this one. I want to hear from God and receive a word that will encourage me, but I’m usually not willing to sacrifice much for it.
I believe that the first prized possession we need to be willing to sacrifice is time. We need to be prepared to spend some time alone – away from others, and in God’s presence. Everyone you know cannot go with you into the great things God has in store for you. We must spend time developing ourselves in the area of our gifts. I can’t say that writing is God’s dream for me, and not have invested time into growing the skill. We should also be willing to sacrifice finances, pride, and resources in pursuit of the dream.
Lord, You gave the ultimate sacrifice for me. Help me to loosen my grip on people, things, time, and resources to allow you work out the dreams You have given me.
Next week, we will finalize the series on dreams with Part 4: God Is With You Every Step of the Way.
findingfemi
April 16, 2013Amen!! Another great word from you Jandi. Thanks for this series on dreams….anxiously awaiting next week's post!!
J.Harris
April 16, 2013As always, love you lots for your support.
Christie
April 16, 2013Very insightful. You are very talented.
Anonymous
April 16, 2013Wonderful post Jandi! Keep serving God and sharing his word with us. I agree with findingfemi, I am excited to read the next post 🙂
MCurran
Anonymous
April 20, 2013This is interesting….I don't dream or have never set dreams for myself for fear of disappointment …only goals because they are less risk and more attainable. Afraid to dream 🙁