DREAMS
REPOST FROM MARCH 2011
I’ve had some dreams in my life… Some good, some not so much. I’m fascinated with the human brain and the overall makeup that allows humans to imagine, reason, and create. I don’t know of one human that after accomplishing something, whether significant or simple, hasn’t felt some sense of gratification.
The dreams of humans have made significant changes in our world, some good, ugly. Dreams rarely seem to take into consideration the rough spots in the road leading to that fulfillment of our dreams, but I suppose there would be little to no gratification or sense of accomplishment without some obstacles to overcome along the way.
Some dreams happen when we’re asleep – subconsciously, or God-given visions, other dreams happen consciously with our eyes wide open seeing the opportunity or need. The reason or purpose behind our dreams or inspirations speak volumes about who we are and where we’re at in our life.
My wife and I were sitting in a bookstore a while back drinking coffee. Across from our table was the “Inspiration” section of the store, at the end of the isle facing us were some of the bestsellers. There was a book by a peculiar looking guy with wild hair and glasses sitting in a simple chair flanked by metal middle eastern statues of guard dogs. His legs were crossed, the side of his right ankle sitting on top of his left thigh, he had a tan business suit on with an orange tie and orange socks. The subtitle of his book was “Billionaire So and So Tells You,” (I forgot his name and had never heard of him before) then the title of the book in bold letters right above and below his picture. “HOW TO GET RICH,” I read some of those types of books when I was younger.
It’s been my experience in life that if it’s a person’s main goal or dream in life to be rich then that person is living a shallow, sad, and unfulfilled life. However, if a person pursues a specific dream or goal with passion for the fulfillment of that dream when it has benefits not just for that person, but others as well, they will find a life of purpose and true fulfillment, in my opinion.
Interestingly enough, it’s also been my observation that the people who live their lives with passion and purpose with a proper moral perspective have enough financial means and some even get rich. I’m left in awe and inspiration by some people who lived their lives and in some cases actually gave up their own life trying to fulfill their dreams or goals.
Mother Theresa comes to mind and how she gave up a life of comfort to care for people less privileged than herself. I’m also mindful of Martin Luther King Jr. and his life of sacrifice for what he believed God called him for. In a world of hate he consistently spoke of the need for forgiveness, this for the people who hated him.
I consider George Washington along with all of our forefathers who risked their lives and wealth to form a nation with the goal of religious freedom, no royal class and equal rights for all men. I think about all the people who sacrificed their lives in order to protect yours and mine, I’m emotionally moved by their dreams to protect, serve, and sacrifice for the benefit of us.
I believe it’s good to dream and have goals, I also believe the process of striving for the good dreams and goals gratifies our nature regardless of the ultimate outcome in most cases.
God’s in the business of dreams, He’s calling His chosen to dream like children and set about to make those dreams reality with the wisdom we’ve gained along the way. I’ve had some dreams in my life… still do…
Sharon
Monday, June 9, 2014 @ 4:42 pm
Beautiful, Floyd. Great insights about people, and about the inability of riches to make people rich. Also, how having dreams and pursuing them can bring satisfaction in itself. I’m in a season of change right now, and seeking some answers for the next part of my life. What will it look like? What do I want it to look like??
In it all, I’m seeking The Answer, and depending on Him to weave my dreams into His purposes.
GOD BLESS!
(Thanks for your comment on my blog – it meant a lot to me. Revere Him, not the things. Floyd, that spoke volumes to me today…)
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 5:54 pm
Well said, Sharon, “The inability of riches to make people rich.” That speaks volumes, sister! You got the wisdom!
Glad that word lifted you a bit, Sharon. I thought it might, you and I deal with a lot of the same issues. It’s not perfect, but it is fellowship! Blessings to you, sister!
Barb Raveling
Monday, June 9, 2014 @ 5:16 pm
I think I’m not really a dreamer by nature. My tendency is to think of something and then think, “I could never do that,” and then not try it. It’s interesting that the thing I’ve been following through on (writing) wasn’t ever on my dream list. But it was something I felt like God was calling me to do. Dreams are great to pursue, but sometimes we are called to pursue things we’re not all that crazy about, just like Jonah, Moses, and Jeremiah had to. I guess that’s where the sacrifice you were talking about comes in to play! I imagine people who are pursuing dreams don’t really like all parts of the pursuing either. 🙂 Loved all of your examples, Floyd.
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 5:55 pm
Great points, Barb. It doesn’t matter what we do on this fallen planet, the roses still have thorns! Thanks, Barb.
Hazel Moon
Monday, June 9, 2014 @ 11:43 pm
This is a great post on dreams and desires and goals. Not all “dreams” come to pass especially when others are involved and keeping the peace. Those Rich Man books, tapes and video’s probably should be shunned. I did read one that made sense and that was to save 10% of your income early in life and put it into an interest baring account. A tither would need to make this an additional 10%.
Reposting an older post is often a good idea, because I sure don’t remember this one. I trust all is well with you!
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 5:56 pm
That is great advice indeed, Hazel! I’m good, just been busy catching up after getting away. I appreciate you checking on me, sister! Blessings to you and Robert, Hazel. Thanks so much.
Bill (cycelguy)
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 2:51 am
Call ’em dreams or call ’em goals, but a person has to have them. The follower of Christ, though, has to temper his with “whatever your will is.” I have never had a goal of being rich because I know there are more important things in life. Although having enough to live comfortably is not bad. 🙂 But even that should not be “the” goal. Drams fuel us. Good point my friend. As for a repost, I’m with hazel. 🙂
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 5:58 pm
You have the right perspective, Bill. You’re living out your faith in life, walking the walk without even talking the talk… that’s just like you, my friend. Appreciate your humility, Bill. Thanks.
TC Avey
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 5:17 am
Amen!
We all have dreams. But it’s our choice if we will align our dreams/plans up with what God created us for. His plan is always better…slowly I’m learning this.
Great post! Couldn’t agree more.
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 5:59 pm
That makes two of us, TC! Haven’t we flunked this class more than once already? ! The company is good!
Cynthia
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 7:42 am
My dreams and goals never cease. Like you, Floyd, I believe that “God’s in the business of dreams…” I believe He created us to dream and use His wisdom to make the world a better place. Much admiration goes to all those to worked hard and gave their lives to see a dream come true. One thing about dreams, they don’t always turn-out the way we dreamed them. Yeah, there are lots of obstacles, but there is also a lot of learning, joy and healing, along the way. This is a wonderful post, Floyd. Thank you, for inspiring all of us to keep dreaming.
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 6:00 pm
Awe, Cynthia… Your words always warm my heart, you have such a gift of encouragement! What a blessing you are, and I appreciate that wisdom too! Thanks, sister!
Chuck Allen
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 7:52 am
I am definitely a dreamer. Sometimes it is hard to figure out which ones to pursue and which ones to pass on. That’s when I’m glad we have a Guide to listen to. Great post, Floyd!
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 6:01 pm
Good call, Chuck. I can’t say I’ve always listened to the voice of our Father, but I sure did regret and learn when I didn’t! Thanks, Chuck. Great to hear from you!
Effie-Alean Gross
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 9:04 am
Hi Floyd,
Great post! I have a few new dreams of becoming a realtor, so this was timely for me. I have never wanted to “get rich,” so I pray that my perspective will remain in reality, looking for the future and my heavenly mansion. You have the right perspective, Floyd. Thanks, again. ~~Effie
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 6:02 pm
Good for you, Effie! That’s the attitude, sister! If God is for us, who can stand against us? Praying for you. Whatever you endeavor, may the Lord bless your path and make it straight and level before you, Effie. Thanks for sharing!
Bernard Haynes
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 10:32 am
Excellent post. This was right up my alley. I had a dream years ago that God fulfilled beyond my wildest imagination. My dreams have changed drastically over the years to reflect what God desires to do through me and not what I try to do on my own.
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 6:04 pm
That is pure wisdom, Bernard. Your words ring truth as one who’s been down the path and back again! Thanks, brother, how I cherish that gift of yours!
Ceil
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 11:03 am
Hi Floyd! You’ve been blogging since 2011? Wow… That’s a lot of posts my friend.
Oh yes, I am a huge dreamer. I wake up with my dreams, instead of going to sleep with them, so I wonder what that means?
In the end it’s the dreams that the Lord has for me that are the ones I will see come to fruition. I just pray mine and his are the same.
Hope you are doing well? Hopefully you are having a good blog-break and getting some deserved rest.
Blessings,
Ceil
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 6:06 pm
I’m with you on the dreams that turn into reality, Ceil. I’ve tried the other ones, they always turn out to be nightmares!
Yeah, I actually started posting in 2010. It’s been a blessing, far more than I could have ever imagined. The constant encouragement and reminders are a huge blessing and gift for me in my life! Thanks for being part of that, sister!
Jason Stasyszen
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 12:36 pm
Lots of dreams. Some feel closer and some seem a million miles away, but I know I can trust God with them. Even if I don’t get to see them all happen in my lifetime, the good ones–the God ones–will be fulfilled at some point and I’ll get to cheer them on. Thanks Floyd.
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 6:08 pm
Wonderful perspective, Jason! You have maturity so far beyond your years! That only comes one way, my brother… May God continue to bless you and your family in all ways, brother.
Dolly@Soulstops
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 1:21 pm
Hi Floyd,
Yes…there is such a difference between dreams focused on wealth vs. those focused on improving the lives of others (& where wealth may be a side result)…I keep asking God to show me what are the dreams He placed in me when He created me…trying to follow Him one day at a time…learning 🙂
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 6:10 pm
I know for sure you’re obedient, Dolly. God is using you in a wonderful way and will continue to guide as you seek. We’re all in the same boat, learning one way or the other, the hard way or the easy way! Thanks, Dolly.
Nannette and the Sweetheart
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 1:49 pm
Dreaming, yes, still dreaming of a few things even though I have entered “the 50 zone”. 🙂 Mine are not dreams of money or fame, my goals have changed a bit. Great thoughts, Floyd!!
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 6:11 pm
I know what some of your goals are, Nannette, and they are wonderful! When your dreams align with the will of our Father good things are coming your way, sister!
Jennifer Dougan
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 4:15 pm
Hi Floyd,
It’s fun to picture you and your wife enjoying coffee in a book store. My husband and I enjoy doing that too.
Your line “God’s in the business of dreams” reminds me of the title Holly Gerth’s book on God-sized dreams. I like that concept.
Jennifer Dougan
http://www.jenniferdougan.com
Floyd
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 6:14 pm
I like that concept too, Jennifer. I’ll have to check out Holly Gerth’s book. Yeah, I’m at home in a bookstore… Thanks, Jennifer!
June
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 7:45 pm
Such wisdom, Floyd 🙂 and unlike Solomon, I’ll wager yours was earned with blood, sweat and tears!
To me, goals and dreams are different. I’ve never been very goal orientated. I’m pretty much a trust God and fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants kinda girl, lol! I’ve never been really open or out there about my dreams, either. God knows my heart’s desire and the best dreams, the ones most likely to be fulfilled, are the dreams/desires that God Himself gives to us.
The dreams we have while sleeping, now those are especially fascinating to me – and the bible has a lot to say about the sleeping kinds of dreams. Dreams sent by God.
I’m glad to hear you’re just playing catch up. I was curious about the “re posts” as well. But being the newbie here, they’re all new to me! Shalom, brother.
Floyd
Wednesday, June 11, 2014 @ 5:44 pm
Nothing wrong with flying by the seat of your pants, I do it quite often myself! I like your perspective on dreams, June. There’s a lesson in there for sure. I try not to repost too often, but sometimes it just can’t be avoided… like this one! Thanks for your input, June. Always appreciated, sister.
Cheryl Smith
Tuesday, June 10, 2014 @ 8:07 pm
This is such a true post. I think a lot about dreams, too…it has hit me lately that maybe God plants those dreams there in the first place to give us gentle nudges towards the direction He wants us to go. I wonder if this is true? I love the Scripture that says, “Delight thyself also in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.” I have an unfulfilled dream that nags at me almost daily. The dream is very much alive, yet, I see no signs of God opening the necessary doors to make it a reality. It is hard for me to distinguish between what is a humanly-derived ambition/dream and a God-ordained plan. Sometimes, it is hard to know. It weighs on my heart to the point that lately, I have asked God to please remove the desire from me if this is not His plan. I loved what you said above, ” He’s calling His chosen to dream like children and set about to make those dreams reality with the wisdom we’ve gained along the way.” It gives me a lot to think about and consider. Thanks so much for sharing what God has placed on your heart here. It is truly a blessing.
Floyd
Wednesday, June 11, 2014 @ 5:47 pm
I wouldn’t argue with you one bit, Cheryl. It is hard to know our own hearts. Since your goal is obviously honorable to our Father, I don’t see the harm in attempting to open a few doors. Our God is a God of action, even daily in supplying the power that runs this cosmos, and our Savior was all about action too. Not that I have the answers, but just something to consider. May God bless your dreams, Cheryl!
Wanda
Wednesday, June 11, 2014 @ 10:29 am
There is something about pursuing a dream that keeps you excitedly pressing forwardly despite obstacles. No coincidence that God would give us those mental images of what does not yet appear.
Floyd
Wednesday, June 11, 2014 @ 5:49 pm
Agreed, Wanda! Well said! It really is the race that is the gratifying part, hardly ever the finish line. Once we hit a finish line we have to start over! Thanks, Wanda, much wisdom, sister.
Caleb Suko
Wednesday, June 11, 2014 @ 12:10 pm
Sometimes I feel like I have too many dreams and the reality is that I know I can’t pursue them all. From time to time I try to distill my dreams into 2 or 3 major ones that I can really focus my life on. Right now my main dream is just to get back to Ukraine in August!
Floyd
Wednesday, June 11, 2014 @ 5:50 pm
A wise man… I like your heart, Caleb. Your dreams of helping and guiding others are worthy dreams, brother. May God bless you and yours as you head towards harm’s way.
Lincoln Parks
Wednesday, June 11, 2014 @ 8:38 pm
Floyd, the dreams that I have had that have been significant have always come to pass in my life. I could point back to a dream before I met my wife of exactly how she looked and her mannerisms. God blessed me with her.. Same for my daughter.. Its amazing but I haven’t had many dreams lately.
Floyd
Thursday, June 12, 2014 @ 6:12 pm
Those are truly awesome gifts from our Father, Lincoln! I know you’re working on a dream right now, my friend. Keep up the honorable work, Lincoln. And thanks for sharing this, that’s really cool!
Lisa notes
Thursday, June 12, 2014 @ 9:02 am
This is encouraging, Floyd, because sometimes we can feel guilty for having dreams. But if they’re to glorify God, we should go for it. Thanks for sharing these great examples of dreamers too. I probably read this post when you originally published it in 2011, but my memory’s not so great, so I’m glad you shared it again. 🙂
Floyd
Thursday, June 12, 2014 @ 6:14 pm
Good point, Lisa. We tend to forget that our Father designed dreams and desires, it’s the fallen world that has polluted His gifts. I’m with you on the memory thing too, I didn’t remember it until I went in search of something to publish! It’s like looking through the dirty clothes hamper in search of the cleanest dirty shirt!
Micah
Wednesday, June 18, 2014 @ 5:21 am
Oh man do I love this post! I think it’s my favourite thing you’ve written. Probably because of where I’m at. It’s more than eerie the number of times I visit your site and find some content that is speaking directly into the season I’m in. ‘A word in due season’ as Proverbs would say. I believe the Holy Spirit writes with you brother.
I loved this line in particular
‘If a person pursues a specific dream or goal with passion for the fulfillment of that dream when it has benefits not just for that person, but others as well.’
I believe in this wholeheartedly. I believe ambition has been distorted by our culture into a selfish thing, a desire to get rather than give. But I believe every human being at their core is designed to give from out of themselves, through their talents and passions and resources, in a way that contributes to the world around them. I think a person is aware somehow of when they’re doing this, when they’re truly giving and being what they were created to be whether through humanitarian efforts or artistic or domestic ones. I think this is what fulfilment and prosperity really means. To be fruitful. To flourish. Give.
Floyd
Wednesday, June 18, 2014 @ 7:34 pm
We’re on the same page, Micah. Reading your thoughts always makes mine go deeper, you’ve a gift to think and for wisdom. Your words do me honor, but moreover, our Father! Thanks so much, Micah. Great to hear from you, brother.