Have you ever questioned the meaning of your dreams? Have you ever wondered why, out of nowhere, you can have a dream about something, someone, or somewhere that seem to have no connection to your daily life? Has God ever shown you a vision in the theatre of your mind about which you had questions or concerns?
All of our dreams and our visions have a meaning and a purpose. Sometimes dreams are comforting, other times they are foreshadowing and, at yet other times, they are prophetic. Our dreams can come to comfort us, as when we see a departed loved one who is happy. Our dreams can also foreshadow a challenge that is down the road for which we need to prepare ourselves. Other times, our dreams come to share God’s plans with us in advance of their occurrence.
Most often visions come to show us what is possible with God. Often our finite minds cannot comprehend the possibilities that are available with God. Hence, God gives us visions of the things that could become a reality with help from and reliance upon God. Dreams and visions come for many reasons and have many meanings. What is most important, is that we pay attention to our dreams and visions.
In the book of Genesis, Joseph has a dream that his older brothers would be subordinate to him. This dream began the difficult journey that led him to his destiny. In the Gospel of Matthew, Pontius Pilate’s wife has one of the more famous dreams in biblical history. She dreamt Jesus had committed no crime and sent word to Pilate that he was about to execute an innocent man. In the book of Revelation, John has the most lengthy and detailed prophetic vision that is chronicled in the word of God.
Dreams are a window into our subconscious minds and a theatre where God’s manifested plans may be played out before us. Visions are God’s opportunity to present us with the plans God has for us and for God’s church. So, if you have questions about your dreams or visions begin by asking God for understanding and interpretation. God will give you what you ask if you are faithful and diligent in your asking. When God makes it clear what the meaning of a dream or vision is, then God expects us to act accordingly. There is no benefit to be told there is someone in need of help and not take the steps to assist. When you clearly understand what God has shown you, do what God tells you to do. This may require risk, but if the vision or dream is from God, it will be beneficial for you and for the Kingdom of God. It’s time for you to work harder at listening for the voice of God. In this season of your life, get busy being about what God is calling you to do.
Striving to be Faithful,
Rev. Paul
Rev. Paul Hobson Sadler, Sr, Senior Pastor
Mt. Zion Congregational Church, United Church of Christ
10723 Magnolia Drive
Cleveland, OH 44106
216.791.5760, mtzioncleveland@gmail.com
mtzioncleveland.com
