DREAM DREAMS AND SEE VISIONS
The divine inspiration I have received compels me to encourage each of you to envision new aspirations and to place your trust in God for renewed insights. It is essential to recognize that the realization of the vision bestowed upon us as a congregation hinges on our belief in the inherent greatness within ourselves.
To strive for greatness, one must cultivate and nurture divine plans; this process requires an open heart receptive to the visions and dreams that God may impart.
The journey toward greatness is fundamentally about fostering these godly aspirations, allowing them to take root and flourish within us. Therefore, I pose a reflective question: how many dreams or aspirations are currently taking shape in your heart? Are you nurturing a vision that inspires you to reach beyond your current circumstances?
Recently, I shared a cherished photograph on Twitter, and I plan to post it on Instagram later, as I know it will resonate more widely there. This image holds significant sentimental value for me, and I find myself wanting to preserve it closely, perhaps even framing it for personal reflection. The photograph captures a moment from seven years and eight days ago, specifically on October 3, 2010, during our Independence Day Celebration, where we donned traditional attire to honor our heritage. It was a day marked by prayer and blessings from my pastor and his wife, as they imparted their encouragement upon us. The image also features children, who, while engaged in their own playful antics, add a layer of joy and innocence to the memory.
A television monitor was prominently displayed on the stage, capturing the attention of the audience. I intentionally selected this particular image because it encapsulated their experience; otherwise, one might find amusement in the situation, questioning the relevance of the other visuals. The significance of this image resonates deeply with me, as it serves as a source of inspiration. Reflecting on that moment when we knelt in prayer, I found myself pondering the thoughts that occupied my mind that day. I distinctly recall driving to church that Sunday morning, overwhelmed with emotion, shedding tears in my car. It was a complex blend of feelings, where the mental image of potential futures clashed with the stark reality of my present circumstances. The contrast between what could be and what is often feels more tangible, leading one to grapple with the notion of trading the visible for the invisible.
As we commemorate our seventh anniversary, I am filled with hope and anticipation for what lies ahead. I envision individuals receiving fresh ideas, new visions, and revitalized dreams. There is a sense of something transformative unfolding within the hearts of those present. I perceive a divine grace descending upon someone here, empowering them to resurrect a dream that may have faded or even died. It is a moment of remembrance, where individuals may recall the promises and aspirations that God has instilled in them, affirming that He remains invested in their lives and desires to bring those dreams to fruition. Despite the challenges that may have caused them to abandon these aspirations, there is an opportunity for renewal and revival.
I perceive a divine influence guiding your heart, encouraging you to embrace new aspirations and rekindle your dreams. It is essential to acknowledge that neither your mind nor your heart can fully grasp the vastness of what God intends for your life. Reflecting on my own journey, I must candidly admit that I could not have envisioned the growth of The Elevation Church seven years ago to the extent that we experience today. While there were numerous plans documented at that time, they remained mere concepts on paper, lacking the tangible reality that my current circumstances present. To provide some context, I had reservations about sharing too much at this moment, as I plan to elaborate further on Sunday. However, I can share that Pastor TJ and I, along with several members of my launch team, had developed a comprehensive one-year plan and budget. This was not a conventional business plan, but rather a strategic outline tailored for a not-for-profit initiative.
We meticulously crafted this strategy and presented it to my pastor, who offered his prayers and support, affirming his belief in our vision. A significant challenge many face in realizing God’s plans lies in our reluctance to embrace and expand upon these visions. This notion resonates with the message conveyed in Habakkuk 2:2, where the prophet instructs to “write the vision and make it plain upon tablets, that he may run who reads it.” The Lord’s response emphasizes the importance of clarity in vision, stating that it is destined for a specific time. Although the fulfillment of this vision may seem delayed, it is crucial to remain patient and steadfast, for it will undoubtedly come to fruition in due time.
He emphasized that despite appearances suggesting a delay, it is crucial not to abandon the vision. Although it may seem contradictory that something can take time yet still be on track, he urged patience, asserting that the vision will ultimately come to fruition. It is essential to cultivate patience, to document ideas, to extend timelines, and to establish clear objectives while placing trust in God to provide supportive individuals who will accompany you through this process. The analogy of vision as a pregnancy illustrates the necessity of having midwives—those who will spiritually and physically support you, ensuring both the vision and its bearer are thriving. These individuals will monitor your progress, checking on your well-being and the health of the vision itself.
In this period of incubation, it is my prayer that you will not navigate this journey in isolation. May the same God who has been a steadfast presence in our lives also stand by you during your times of waiting. I declare that whatever God has instilled in your heart, even if it currently seems intangible or in its infancy, is on the verge of becoming a reality. Your aspirations and dreams will not falter; they will manifest successfully, just as the vision of the Elevation Church has flourished. For those who have faced challenges in realizing their dreams, I affirm that your ambitions will not perish but will progress from strength to strength and glory to glory. It is vital to remain vigilant and avoid succumbing to complacency when God is inspiring you with new ideas and opportunities. Vision is fundamentally about perceiving potential—not merely accepting the current state of affairs but envisioning what could be.
Vision can be understood through various definitions, one of which describes it as a mental representation of an ideal future. This concept is further elaborated by George Barna, a prominent researcher in the United States, who articulates that vision encompasses foresight grounded in insight, enriched by the lessons of hindsight. While this definition may require some contemplation to fully appreciate its depth, it emphasizes the importance of understanding past experiences to inform future aspirations. For the purpose of our discussion, I would like to present a more straightforward definition: vision is the ability to perceive possibilities not as they currently exist, but as they could potentially unfold.
This raises an important question about self-perception: are you viewing yourself solely through the lens of your current circumstances? Reflecting on the early days of establishing The Elevation Church, my wife and I faced numerous challenges and uncertainties. The biblical principle that one who waits for perfect conditions will never take action resonated deeply with us. We recognized that while certain elements must be in place, perfection is not a prerequisite for progress. At that time, I was particularly preoccupied with our mortgage obligations, which loomed large over our finances. The thought of starting a church without a steady income felt daunting, yet I often found humor in the situation, reminding myself that laughter can be a source of strength. Ultimately, I understood that while the mortgage consumed a significant portion of my income, it was essential to maintain a vision that transcended immediate challenges.
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak in Enugu, where I shared a personal testimony regarding the importance of goal setting. My wife and I, during our dating period or perhaps while on our honeymoon, established a significant objective: we aspired to own a house by our fifth wedding anniversary. This aspiration was not merely a fleeting thought; we documented it and nurtured a firm belief in its realization. Remarkably, at the onset of our fifth year of marriage, we achieved this goal. Upon reflection, I mentioned to my personal assistant that I should have elaborated on the journey we undertook to reach this milestone, emphasizing that it was not a simple or effortless process. We secured a commercial mortgage in Nigeria, a challenging endeavor, particularly given the financial landscape. My wife, who was employed at a bank at the time, facilitated half of the house’s cost through a staff mortgage, while I took on the other half through a commercial mortgage, which was a significant financial commitment relative to my salary.
The experience of managing this mortgage was intense, leaving me with minimal financial flexibility. However, I am pleased to share that we successfully paid off the mortgage long ago, and the house is now fully ours. This property holds immense sentimental value for us as it represents our first home together. We currently have a tenant residing there, and I often visit to check on it, treating it with the care one would give to a cherished possession. This journey has taught me that perfection is not a prerequisite for taking action. It is essential to cultivate a vision of a preferable future, one that allows us to see beyond our current circumstances to the possibilities that lie ahead. The question we must ask ourselves is whether we perceive our current state as a fixed reality or as a stepping stone toward our potential.
The perception of one’s family can often be a reflection of both the present reality and the potential for future growth. When considering your children, it is essential to evaluate whether you view them solely as they are at this moment or as the individuals they have the potential to become. Similarly, in the context of business, one may find themselves grappling with current challenges, such as a lack of turnover. It is crucial to discern whether you are perceiving your business in its current state or envisioning the possibilities for its future success. This distinction is vital as it serves as a foundational step in exploring the broader implications of our perspectives on various aspects of life.
Delving deeper into this subject, it is important to recognize that a fundamental aspect of our divine nature lies in our ability to remember and to imagine. The biblical text from Genesis 1:26 highlights the notion that humanity is created in the image and likeness of God, endowed with the capacity for dominion over creation. This prompts a reflective inquiry into how we mirror the divine. One significant way we resemble God is through our cognitive abilities to recall past experiences and to envision future possibilities. The opening verses of Genesis illustrate a transformative process, suggesting that the initial state of creation was not one of chaos but rather a precursor to the ordered world that followed. This invites contemplation on how we perceive both our current circumstances and the potential for change and growth in our lives.
In the beginning, it is stated that God created the heavens and the earth; however, darkness enveloped the surface of the deep, rendering the earth formless and void. The biblical narrative describes how the Spirit of God moved across the waters, and God envisioned light breaking through the darkness. He proclaimed, “Let there be light,” and light emerged. God did not accept the earth’s initial state of darkness and emptiness; rather, He possessed the ability to envision a transformed reality. This capacity for imagination allowed Him to see beyond the current chaos, suggesting that there is a profound potential for change and creation inherent in His nature.
As articulated in Genesis 1:26, God declared, “Let us make man in our image,” which implies that humanity shares in this divine creative capacity. This notion indicates that just as God shaped the world, humans are endowed with the ability to create and innovate. Unlike animals, whose memory and imagination are limited and require extensive training, humans possess an innate ability to imagine and conceptualize. This inherent creativity is a reflection of being made in God’s likeness. God’s decision to create raw materials, such as apples and wheat, without processing them into products like apple juice or bread, underscores His confidence in humanity’s creative potential. He entrusted us with the responsibility to shape and cultivate the world, affirming that we are capable of realizing the visions that align with His original intent.
It is essential to recognize that God, in His infinite wisdom, has endowed humanity with an inherent capacity that allows us to perceive not only the present reality but also the potential that lies within it.
This divine gift enables us to envision possibilities beyond our immediate circumstances, reflecting the creative nature of God Himself. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to acknowledge their creation in the image and likeness of God, which imbues them with the ability to dream and innovate. This understanding fosters a mindset that encourages one to see the world not merely as it is, but as it could be, thus glorifying the divine purpose in their lives.
The foundation of prayer, particularly when considered outside the context of fellowship with God, is encapsulated in the phrase “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” This directive, given by Jesus to His disciples, emphasizes the importance of establishing a connection with the Father through worship and reverence before moving on to the invocation of His will on earth. When individuals receive divine inspiration—such as the vision for a groundbreaking hospital or a transformative educational institution—they are not only recognizing God’s intentions but are also actively participating in the manifestation of His kingdom on earth. This engagement signifies a commitment to fulfilling God’s agenda, particularly in nurturing future generations and shaping their values through creative endeavors.
What is occurring is the manifestation of divine will on earth, mirroring its existence in heaven. This process begins in the heart of God, where the vision is first conceived. It then transitions into the individual’s heart, ultimately leading to its realization in the physical realm. This sequence underscores the principle that all creations are birthed twice: first internally, and subsequently externally. It is essential for individuals to grasp this concept, as the initial vision must be internalized before it can be manifested in the tangible world. For instance, if a house were to suddenly materialize without any prior architectural design, it would be prudent to be cautious, as it indicates a failure to adhere to the foundational process. The natural order of creation involves a clear vision, followed by its articulation, and finally, its actualization.
The articulation of vision is emphasized in the biblical reference from Abraham, chapter 2, verse 2, which instructs to make the vision clear on paper so that it can be pursued effectively. A significant disconnect often arises when individuals receive divine inspiration but fail to document or share it with others. This lack of initiative can lead to the gradual fading of the vision, as it is not nurtured or discussed with the appropriate individuals. Many may hesitate due to concerns about financial implications or other obstacles; however, it is crucial to remember that the genesis of all endeavors lies in vision, not monetary considerations. The act of creation begins with a clear vision, as illustrated in Genesis chapter 1, where the command “let there be light” was issued without regard for cost, highlighting that vision is the cornerstone of all that follows.
In contemplating whether to focus on the past, which is irrevocably lost, or the future, which remains open to creation and possibility, one is drawn to the profound insights found in Ephesians 3:20. This scripture articulates the boundless capabilities of God, stating that He is able to accomplish exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we can ask or even imagine, contingent upon the divine power that operates within us. This passage encourages a shift in focus from the limitations of memory to the expansive realm of imagination. It suggests that rather than dwelling on what has already transpired, one should invest energy in envisioning a future filled with potential and promise, as God is eager to exceed our expectations and aspirations.
Furthermore, the message resonates with the exhortation found in Isaiah, which urges individuals to forget the former things and not dwell on the past, for God is poised to initiate something new. Engaging in lamentation over past events is deemed unproductive; instead, one should embrace the opportunity for renewal and transformation. The divine promise is clear: God is capable of surpassing our wildest dreams and desires, especially when we allow His power to work within us. Therefore, it is imperative to cultivate a mindset of imagination and boldness, as exemplified by the experiences shared over the past seven years, where the focus has been on envisioning and articulating aspirations. In doing so, one can find joy in the present and anticipation for the future, rather than being hindered by the shadows of what once was.
It is difficult to ascertain the specific emotions that may arise within you, yet I encourage you to embrace laughter regardless of the circumstances. Laughter serves as a powerful tool to uplift the spirit, and in moments of reflection, it is beneficial to find humor in past experiences. These memories, while they may seem significant, hold no true power over you unless you allow them to. Engaging your imagination is a practice that delights God, as it reflects a deep faith and willingness to envision possibilities beyond the present. The act of imagining a brighter future excites divine anticipation, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what lies ahead rather than being anchored by what has already transpired.
One fundamental truth to grasp is that envisioning the future holds greater significance than dwelling on the past. While it is possible to engage with both, I urge you to prioritize the creation of your future, as I have done in my own life. Many individuals find themselves trapped in a cycle of revisiting past grievances, which can lead to a life filled with sorrow and regret. However, it is essential to recognize that the potential for abundance lies ahead, as articulated in Ephesians 3:20, which speaks of God’s ability to exceed our expectations. The future is not predetermined; it is malleable and can be shaped by your aspirations and faith. With God’s guidance, you possess the power to craft the future you desire, transforming it into a reality that reflects your dreams and hopes.
By inviting divine assistance into your life, you can begin to grasp the aspirations that God has for you, enabling you to align your actions with these intentions and actively shape your future.
It is essential to recognize a fundamental truth: you possess the power to create the future you desire.
Avoid succumbing to the mindset of the masses, who often dwell on anxieties regarding what lies ahead. Many individuals become preoccupied with worries about the future, yet the teachings found in Matthew chapter 6, particularly from verse 28 onward, illustrate a profound lesson. The passage highlights the lilies of the field and the birds of the air, which do not labor or spin, yet they are provided for in every aspect of their existence. This serves as a reminder that worry is unnecessary, as God meets the needs of all His creations.
It is crucial to understand that some individuals resign themselves to a state of complacency, mistaking it for contentment. The First Epistle to Timothy emphasizes that godliness combined with contentment is a source of great gain, distinguishing between true contentment and mere stagnation. Contentment reflects an awareness of personal growth; it acknowledges that while one may not be where they once were, there is still a journey ahead. This perspective encourages a proactive approach to life, urging individuals to remain godly while continuously striving for improvement. It is vital to communicate this message clearly: true contentment does not equate to being stagnant or giving up hope. Instead, it embodies a state of happiness in the present while actively pursuing future goals, ensuring that one does not fall into the trap of complacency.
It is common for individuals to assign blame to others for their past experiences, which can be a natural response to feelings of hurt or disappointment. While it is acceptable to reflect on past grievances—such as a person who failed to provide financial support for a business venture, or someone who neglected to pay for educational expenses—this focus on blame should not extend into the future. The essence of personal empowerment lies in recognizing that the control over one’s future resides within oneself. For instance, if a loan application is denied today, it is merely a temporary setback that should not deter one from seeking new opportunities tomorrow. Each day presents a fresh start, and the unwavering love and mercy of the Lord renews every morning, encouraging individuals to move forward rather than dwell on past grievances.
Moreover, the concept of predestination can often lead to misunderstandings that may hinder personal growth and progress. Some individuals may interpret their current circumstances as a predetermined fate, believing that their struggles are a reflection of their chosen destiny. This perspective can be detrimental, as it may foster a sense of helplessness and resignation. In Romans chapter 8, the notion of predestination is discussed, but it is crucial to approach this doctrine with clarity to avoid its potentially toxic implications. Instead of succumbing to the belief that one’s situation is unchangeable, it is vital to embrace the idea that individuals have the power to shape their own futures through their actions and decisions.
Many individuals interpret the concept of predestination as a form of fatalism, leading them to excuse their circumstances by attributing everything to destiny. This mindset often results in a passive acceptance of life’s outcomes, as they relinquish control over their future, believing that it is solely determined by divine will. The biblical passage from Romans 8:29-30 illustrates this doctrine of predestination, emphasizing that those whom God foreknew were also predestined to be transformed into the likeness of His Son, Jesus Christ. This transformation is not merely a passive acceptance of fate; rather, it is an active calling that leads to justification and ultimately glorification. The essence of our destiny, as outlined in these scriptures, is to embody the characteristics of Christ, which inherently includes the ability to envision and shape our future.
It is crucial to recognize that one’s destiny cannot be defined by a mere acceptance of circumstances that do not align with the teachings of scripture. The notion that one must resign to a predetermined life contradicts the biblical promise of glorification and transformation into Christ’s image. In this context, the capacity to dream and influence one’s future is not only encouraged but is a fundamental aspect of being conformed to Christ. The assurance found in Jeremiah 29:11, where God expresses His intentions for us, reinforces the belief that He has plans for our future that are inherently good. This understanding invites individuals to actively engage with their lives, rather than passively accepting a fate that is not reflective of their divine potential.
When he gazes into my future, what he perceives is a vision of glory, a future imbued with hope and beauty. I am aware of the intentions that God holds for me, as He asserts that He understands the thoughts He has for me. He desires to instill some of these thoughts within my heart, a process known as spiritual incursion. This phenomenon occurs when God shares His contemplations about me, allowing them to resonate within my spirit. It is through this divine interaction that we gain insight and vision. Engaging in prayer is essential, as it aligns us with His will and purpose, enabling Him to impart those positive thoughts He harbors in His mind into our hearts.
This concept is exemplified in the life of Joseph, who experienced a profound revelation through his dreams. At the tender age of seventeen, he encountered a vision that was a direct incursion from God into his subconscious, revealing his future in a way that astonished him. This aligns with the message found in Ephesians 3:20, which speaks to the extraordinary nature of God’s plans. Joseph’s faith in what he saw compelled him to share his dreams with his brothers, despite the potential for skepticism. Many of us find ourselves in a similar position, having glimpsed our own dreams yet hesitating to voice them due to doubt or fear of judgment. It is crucial to recognize that God has a unique dream for each of us, and if we earnestly seek Him, He will unveil it to us.