Yesterday I talked about using our imaginations to think about eternity and all that God has prepared for us. The Bible says we can’t begin to imagine how awesome it is, but I love trying to imagine it! Today, I’d like to talk about the importance of DREAMS.  Not just any dreams- but the dreams God puts in our hearts– those are the best kind because He dreams bigger and better than we ever could!

Children dream BIG, impractical, FUN dreams! Bethany googled this picture the other day, excitedly dragging me to the computer so I could see.

She said excitedly, “Mommy, look!  This is MY car!  When I get it I can go to work at Sonic or Subway.

Realistic dreams?   Maybe- maybe not. But do I discourage them?  No way!  I say, “Then we have to work very hard at learning everything we need to know so you can learn how to drive and be a blessing at work.”

She beams up at me, satisfied with that answer.  And then she proceeds to read every street sign, look in the car mirrors, tells me what the speed limit is, watches for pedestrians and urges me to turn on my turn signals or slow down for a yellow traffic light.  Who knows?  There are young adults with downs syndrome now driving!  There are young people with all kinds of diabilities and limitations who find fulfilling work and jobs.  Why would I ever box her into a stereotype and shoot down her dreams? I plan on encouraging her and then equipping her to the best of my abilities!  One of Bethany’s life verses is “I Can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”  Phil 4:13.

 Bethany teaches me to  NOT FOCUS on my limitations

– just look up and Dream the dreams He puts in your heart.  When did I stop dreaming big?  Maybe after “life between the trees” started happening on a regular basis!  But recently, God has been planting big dreams in my heart again.  My dreams are not little girl dreams now- they are born from the trials and fires of life.  I dream God will use me to encourage others.  I dream our children will grow in God and the talents He’s blessed them with.  I dream that our grandchildren will follow after the Lord and make a difference in this tired, old world. I dream of experiencing God’s presence in this life even in the midst of my sorrows and I delight to dream about the eternal joy that will come when He welcomes me home.

Surprising Treasures:  God is the ultimate Dream giver.  I want to say “I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST” and have the courage to dream big, dream His dreams and pursue them with gusto.