Most of us have big dreams we would be delighted to realize. Yours may all seem like “high hopes” and so big that they seem out of reach. Consequently, they remain hollow imaginings that when you really think about them . . . you dismiss them because you believe you will never actually see them happen.

For example, some of our dreams have to do with our physical surroundings including wanting a beautiful home with lovely gardens. Or wanting a good-looking car and fashionable clothes.

We have hopes for our personal relationships, such as a loving and strong union with our spouse. Close connections with our children, siblings, parents and other family members. We want good, solid friendships and social interactions that bring joy and fun to our lives.

We have hopes about how to make a difference in our world for the cause of Christ. Perhaps you dream of a going on a mission trip . . . or leading a small group in your church . . . or helping the poor in your community, country and the world.

But when you compare your reality with your dreams, there is a deep cavern between the two. And so you go on and live your life in the same way day after day, month after month, and year after year. And soon the dreams evaporate and you settle for the life that is left.

But let me challenge you today

Let me stir you a bit . . . so you can see that you can have a lot more than you realize. And perhaps those untouchable dreams will be fulfilled after all.

So I ask, “You may not be able to do it all right now . . . but what can you do?”

Perhaps your marriage isn’t the perfect one you have in your imagination. But what can YOU do today to add some love, life and joy into the relationship? Can you purpose to give your spouse a word of appreciation, encouragement or respect each day . . . with no strings attached?  Can you do the same with your children? Is there a simple way you can reach out to a friend or family member that would show them you care about them and that you value them in your life?

15662505 - hand drawing a house in a large grace fieldMaybe you don’t have the “dream car” or the “dream house” right now. But what can YOU do today to appreciate what you do have and make it better and more enjoyable? Can you give your car a good and thorough scrubbing inside and out? Can you chose a room in your home and give it an update with a coat of paint, new curtains . . . or even a special accessory?

That mission trip you “dream of taking” someday might not be on the near future. But what can YOU do today to make a difference in the world to share the love of Christ? Can you start giving monthly support toward the missions program in your church? Can you buy an extra bag of groceries each month and leave it at the local food bank or soup kitchen? Can you make a commitment to provide prayer and financial support to help relieve some of the pain and suffering of those who have experienced major tragedy in their lives?

There is so much that we CAN do . . . if we don’t stay stuck because we can’t have the big dream all at once. So many people live in quiet desperation as they watch their dreams evaporate. But you don’t have to be part of that crowd.

Think About It

I hope you will take a few minutes and consider what YOU can do. I’m not talking about making such grandiose plans that they become so complex that they don’t get accomplished either. Instead, what are some simple things you can do? Even now, think of just one thing you can do to make a difference in your life and in the lives of others.

The Word gives us a proven instruction, “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4. Your Father wants you to lead a great, powerful and very attractive life. He wants you to stand out so you can reveal the amazing life we can have when we put our trust in the Lord. So much awaits you. What will you do today to receive? What will you do today to start realizing your dreams and making in difference?