Glory in the Morning

Do you have a dream, something you have always wanted to do? Are you going after it? Sometimes we have to put a dream on hold because we have trials that require all of our time and effort. But sometimes…we get the chance of a lifetime to pursue our dreams. My great friend’s daughter got that chance.

She is living her dream of going to cooking school. Everything about the learning and cooking and practicing and sharing her journey brings her joy. It is exciting when you see someone so full of joy and passion to accomplish something! I am so happy for her! As I was reading her posts on Facebook, I found I was smiling because of her joy. She was overflowing with joy and gratitude and it overflowed to me. This verse relates:

Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 NIV

This verse is so encouraging! Even when we are folding laundry or slaving away at a job there is joy. Even when our world is scary, people are arguing, and the future is uncertain, we can have joy. This verse doesn’t promise we will get all the things we want, like a new car or a raise. It means that when we delight in the Lord, He will give us our heart’s desire for eternal things, things that only He can give. Setting our sights on God, chasing His dream for us, brings peace and fulfillment. This verse explains it well:

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13 NIV

Dear Father,

Thank you for the joy You give. You have a dream for my life that I may not see, but I trust You and will delight in You. Thank Whatever Your plan is for my life, I will have joy just because it comes from You. Thank You for all the peace that comes from living for You. If I have any gifts or talents that can be used by You, I want You to take them and live Your dream for me, through me. Whether cooking or singing or preaching or sewing, show me how I can use it to draw more people to you. I love You so much! Amen

GROWwork: Consider what you have always wanted to do. Maybe as a child, you loved to draw, play an instrument, sing or build things. I believe God gives us the desire and talent to do something we enjoy, at any age! When the thing you enjoy can be used in church or in service to others or to inspire others to have joy in a sometimes negative world, then go for it! It is never too late to use your gifts for Him. Remember…You are special. God made You for His purposes. He has a dream for you.

***Thank you, Jenee Turner for letting me share your story!

Love and prayers to all!

Tina