Dream And Do!

"What were you thinking when you did that?" Sometimes the response to this question is, "I wasn't thinking." It has been noted that "Vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare." [bulletin clipping] Perhaps we have experienced the "nightmare"; the consequences of actions that were not fully thought out. It is wise to give consideration to our actions before they are CARRIED OUT. However, the good we see that needs to be done, but is not CARRIED OUT, is of consequence as well.

As James noted how faith and works are inseparable, he stated. . .
"(14) WHAT GOOD IS IT, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? (15) If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, (16) and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and filled,' without giving them the things needed for the body, WHAT GOOD IS THAT? (17) So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead." ( James 2:14-17 ESV)

This reminds me of the farmer with barns full of corn who would pray every night for the hungry to be fed. After one such prayer one of his children spoke up and said, "Dad, I wish I had your corn." To which he responded, "You, do? And what would you do with it?" "I would answer you prayer." answer the child.

Later James would state. . .
"(17) So WHOEVER KNOWS THE RIGHT THING TO DO AND FAILS TO DO IT, FOR HIM IT IS SIN." ( James 4:17 ESV)

Such a principle may have wide application. Certainly we should give our actions some thought before carrying them out. However, we must also CARRY THROUGH with that which we know and see needs and ought to be done.

Solomon urged. . .
"(3) Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established. . . . (9) The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps." ( Proverbs 16: 3 & 9 ESV)

Giving our dreams and plans over the Lord with a willingness to be used by Him in whatever ways He sees fit, will not only bless our life, but the lives of those who are touched by us. It is okay to dream, but may our vision for action be accompanied by a willingness to FOLLOW THROUGH. Though we may dream big at times, remember that God is bigger than our dreams. (note Ephesians 3:20) As we step forward in service to His glory, may we be amazed at what He can bring about when we are completely willing to be used by Him.

Have a great day LIVING OUT A VISION OF GOD GLORIFYING SERVICE!
Carl

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