As a Person Believes

Faith and Belief

There’s a lot stirring in my heart, and I want to share it with you today. It’s been a while since I’ve brought a word, and I feel like there’s something important we need to discuss. You see, there are layers to our faith, much like the layers of glory mentioned in the scripture. As we walk with God, we are not just moving away from one glory to another; instead, we are building upon each layer. God is gentle with us, revealing things as we grow, and that’s a beautiful aspect of our journey.

The Parable of the Donkey

Let me start with a little parable about a donkey and two stacks of hay. Picture this: a donkey stands between two stacks of hay, unable to decide which one to eat. In the end, he can’t make a choice and dies from indecision. This story illustrates a critical point: a double-minded person cannot receive wisdom from God. You can’t pursue two paths at once; you must decide where you’re headed in life.

Think about it. If you’re trying to reach Chicago and Los Angeles simultaneously, you’re not going to get anywhere. You have to choose a destination and commit to it. This decision-making is crucial, not just in our spiritual lives but in everything we do.

Lessons from Johnny Manziel

I want to share a story about Johnny Manziel, famously known as “Johnny Football.” He won the Heisman Trophy and was a hot ticket in college football. However, when he joined the Browns, things changed. The owners wanted him, but the coaches didn’t think he was the right fit. This disconnect created a challenging environment for him.

After just three games, he lost confidence in himself. Confidence is powerful. It’s not about arrogance; it’s about knowing where you’re going. When you lose sight of your dream, your confidence can slip away. Johnny tried to win games with his athleticism alone, but in the pros, it’s not just about talent; it’s about understanding the system and having the right support.

Building Confidence

We gain confidence from those around us. The scripture says, “Iron sharpens iron.” As we interact with each other, we build one another up. The people you surround yourself with can either lift you or drag you down. It’s essential to be associated with those who have fidelity, honesty, and value. When you attach yourself to something meaningful, it builds your confidence.

In the context of faith, we can look at the powerful concept of sacrifice. The Latin words for ‘sacrifice’ mean to destroy something and to make something holy. Through Christ’s sacrifice, we are called to destroy the old man in us and embrace a new life. This transformation is not just about personal growth; it’s about the impact we have on others.

Finding Confidence in Prayer

Let’s turn to 1 John 5:14, which states, “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.” This verse highlights the importance of aligning our dreams with God’s will. When we do this, we can approach Him with confidence, knowing He hears us.

Reflecting on my past, I remember a time when I had to face a difficult situation. I had accidentally run over my dog, Missy, and had to bury her. When I returned home, my family was devastated. I learned a valuable lesson that day: when you bury the old man, make sure the grave is deep enough. We often try to resurrect old habits or mindsets that should remain buried.

Overcoming Obstacles

Every dream comes with obstacles. When I was teaching in Mexico, I told my students that if they truly believed in their dreams, they would face challenges. These obstacles test our commitment and belief in our dreams. They are not meant to discourage us but to strengthen us.

Take Joseph, for example. He had a dream that his family would bow down to him, but his journey was fraught with challenges. His brothers rejected him and sold him into slavery. Yet, despite these trials, he remained confident in his dreams. Even when he found himself in prison, he continued to believe in the dream God had given him.

The Power of a Dream

Joseph’s story teaches us that a dream is powerful. It doesn’t matter where you find yourself; if you have a dream, you are prosperous. The dream God places in your heart propels you forward. It’s not just about your circumstances; it’s about the belief that you can overcome them.

When Joseph was sold into slavery, he didn’t let that define him. He thrived in Potiphar’s house and later in prison because he understood the value of his dream. The blessings followed him wherever he went.

Faith in Adversity

Many of us face adversities that test our faith. Joseph was falsely accused and thrown into prison, yet he maintained his integrity and faith. He knew that his dream was bigger than his current situation. When Pharaoh had a dream, it was Joseph who interpreted it, bringing him back into a position of power.

God doesn’t always reveal the entire journey. He gives you the skeleton of the dream and expects you to step out in faith. That’s where your faith is activated. Even when things get tough, don’t give up on your dream. Your dream is what will keep you going.

Confidence in Community

Our community plays a vital role in our journey. God places people in our lives to support us. When we face challenges, we need to lean on one another. The friction we experience often comes from trying to pursue our dreams together. It’s essential to stay connected and encourage each other.

When you have a dream, it’s not just about you. It’s about the collective impact you can have on your family, community, and beyond. We have to recognize the value in each other and the dreams we carry. Together, we can achieve so much more.

Conclusion: Embracing the Dream

As we wrap up, remember that confidence is built on faith and community. We are called to support one another, to lift each other up, and to pursue our dreams with fervor. God has placed dreams in our hearts for a reason, and it’s our responsibility to nurture and pursue them.

Let’s pray for clarity in our dreams and the strength to overcome any obstacles we face. May we always remember that confidence comes from knowing who we are in Christ and the community we build around us. Together, we can make a significant impact in our lives and the lives of those around us.