#ThoseWhoDream17

by Pastor Jeffrey Smith

As we embark on 2017 we proceed with the bold vision that the people of City of Life church are “Like those who Dream”. This year’s vision is based on Psalm 126. 

"When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations,“The Lord has done great things for them.” Psalms 126: 1-2

Psalms 126 is known as a psalm of Ascent. Biblically, these types of psalms were sung by Hebrew pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem or possibly while ascending Mount Zion or the steps of the Temple. It is a song of progression... one foot in front of the other, intentionally declaring their worship, God’s faithfulness, and their petitions with each step. The concept we learn here is to connect our dreams and desires with our pursuit of God. We are called to live at a higher level with Him.  

God wants you to dream boldly and fearlessly regardless of past disappointments, failures or successes. God is a God of hope and restoration. He blesses his children as they walk in faith daily with Him. His dream for us is bigger than we ever imagined, and a dream is realized through a divine process similar to taking steps up a mountain.  

God has called you to a life of fulfilling progress. The following are the steps towards our spiritual ascent to attaining our dreams:

1)Discern. Seek God’s input on what is His vision for your life. Ask him for wisdom on the steps required to fulfill what he placed on your heart. Also, decipher the possible obstacles that may try to stop you in pursuing your dream. Faith never cowers in fear but moves forward.

2)Dedicate. Before moving forward, commit your plans to the Lord in prayer. Ask God to bless your steps and lead you to the right resources, connections, relationships, tools, opportunities, and mentors.  

3)Define. Define your “win”. Write your dream into attainable, realistic goals. Vague goals will only lead to uncertain results. Dare to be specific so that your goals are on target.  

4)Discipline. Calculate what will be required to pursue God’s vision, and decide ahead of time how you will live your life on a consistent basis. This type of focus helps us deny the things that do not line up with our desired results.

5)Dominate. As you practice each step you will gain godly confidence. Your consistency will leverage your talents and strengthen your credibility and reputation. God is glorified when we walk in excellence and reach the summit of our dreams.