LIVING THE DREAM

By: Dennis Harworth

As the turquoise waves gently brushed the shores of the white sandy beach, the cool ocean breeze softly rustled through the flourishing palm trees overhead.  The soothing warm sun danced around the fluffy clouds in the azure blue skies in perfect harmony with the serene surroundings.  While lounging in this perfect tranquil tropical paradise, we were in such a relaxed, peaceful state that all the cares of the world had disappeared beyond the distant horizon.  We thought we had “arrived” and this is what it meant to be “Living the dream”.  But then I woke up and came back to the present reality.

Living the dream will look different for everyone because fulfillment comes from living life based on your values and passions.  It could be a wide range from enjoying simple daily pleasures, to having a meaningful dream job, or a fast-growing ministry.   It is still choosing purpose over popularity, peace over pressure, contentment over comparison, and especially pursuing the right priorities.  I say this because for decades, even in my Christian walk, my life was out of balance and my priorities were out of order.  Granted, I got by, but just like living on the beach, that lifestyle is not sustainable.  I had to get a reality check and start living by God’s Word instead of my way.  I am so very glad I did! 

Now I can honestly say my life is blessed beyond belief; infinitely beyond my highest prayers, desires, thoughts, hopes, or dreams (Ephesians 3:20 AMPC).  I have inexpressible joy from loving and trusting Jesus (1 Peter 1:8) and wealth beyond riches (Proverbs 15:16).  This definitely did not happen overnight, nor was it easy.  But it is so worth putting forth the effort to pursue God’s way of living a dream life.  Here are seven verses how:       

1.   Seek God first and His righteousness so your needs can be met and you don’t have to worry about a thing. (Matthew 6:31-33)

2.   Walk uprightly so no good thing will be withheld from you. (Psalm 84:11)

3.   Trust the Lord with all your heart for His purpose and direction. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

4.   Commit to the Lord whatever you do; and your plans will succeed. (Proverbs 16:3 NLT)

5.   Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. (Proverbs 37:4)

6.   Obey and serve the Lord and you will spend your days in prosperity and your years in

pleasantness and joy. (Job 36:11, AMPC) 

This verse might sum it up the best: 

7.   Chase after righteousness and you will find all your dreams come true: an abundant life drenched with

favor and a fountain that overflows with satisfaction. (Proverbs 21:21, TPT)

 This is so much better than any tropical beach scene!  Therefore, do your part and know that God will do His.  For it is His will, purpose and design for you to be... LIVING THE DREAM!