Many people wonder if God wants them to follow their dreams and passions. This is an important question for Christians who want to live according to God’s will. In exploring this issue, there are several key questions to consider:
What does the Bible say about following your dreams?
The Bible does not explicitly tell people to “follow your dreams.” However, there are some verses that relate to using our gifts and passions:
- “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10)
- “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord…” (Colossians 3:23)
These verses show that we should use our skills wholeheartedly to honor God. Our dreams and passions often point to the gifts God has given us.
Should we make our dreams into idols?
While God may lead us to pursue our dreams, we must be careful not to make them into idols. If we are living only for our own glory and fulfillment, we can drift away from God:
- “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” (James 3:16)
Rather than obsessively chasing our dreams, we should hold them with an open hand, surrendering them to God’s will:
- “Surrender your hopes and dreams to Christ and trust that He will help you discern His plan for your life.”
Does God open and close doors?
Many Christians believe God guides them by opening and closing “doors of opportunity.” This metaphor suggests that God provides chances to pursue certain dreams:
- “God may open doors He wants you to walk through and close doors He wants you to avoid.”
At the same time, we have free will and cannot expect God to miraculously reveal His specific will for every decision. But we can seek His wisdom and listen for His guidance.
How can you discover God’s will?
Here are some ways to discern God’s will about a dream or desire:
- Pray about it humbly and sincerely.
- Seek counsel from mature Christian friends.
- Study Scripture to understand God’s principles.
- Listen to the Holy Spirit’s nudging in your conscience.
- Watch for God’s providence and timing in your life.
- Consider whether it contradicts Biblical truths.
As you explore your dreams, stay rooted in Scripture, prayer, and Christian community. Listen more than speak. Seek God’s Kingdom first.
What are God’s main priorities for our lives?
More important than following our dreams is fulfilling God’s purposes:
- Loving God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind (Luke 10:27).
- Loving our neighbor as ourselves (Luke 10:27).
- Making disciples and teaching all nations about Christ (Matthew 28:19-20).
- Using our gifts to serve God and others (1 Peter 4:10).
- Conforming ourselves to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).
As we pursue God’s Kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33), He will direct our paths, dreams, and the use of our gifts. We must hold our dreams loosely and seek His Kingdom first.
What if you have a dream that seems impractical?
If your dream seems impractical or unrealistic, take it to God in prayer. Some options include:
- Ask God to open doors and provide resources if it aligns with His will.
- Consider modifying your dream to make it more feasible.
- Be willing to let go of the timing and specifics – God’s plan may differ from your own.
- View your skills and passions as tools God can use in any context.
- Ask God to show you creative ways to honor Him through your gifts.
Rather than limiting God’s power, you may find He wants to use your willingness in surprising ways. Release your grip and patiently trust His divine plan.
Conclusion
God cares about your dreams because He cares about you. He wants to guide you toward His purpose for your life. Be sensitive to His Spirit’s leading as you balance God-given dreams with Kingdom priorities. Listen more than speak. Discern God’s will through prayer, wisdom, Scriptural truth and contemplation. Lay down your own agenda. Then step forward in faith, believing in God’s power and timing to open the right doors. He will direct your path as you delight in Him.
