One of the things God has been putting on my heart lately is the concept of dreaming big. You know, reaching for the stars, going for it at all costs, walking around with your head in the clouds. Yeah, that type of stuff. So I recently came across a copy of “The Dream Giver” by Bruce Wilkenson and decided to buy it (it was $1, can’t beat that) and give it a read. I am loving it so far as it is really challenging me to re-think my dreams and how to go for them. Anyway I really just want to share some of my thoughts on Dreaming Big.

1. We serve a BIG God, who gives BIG Dreams. - Yes, you have a big dream and it is from a big God.
2. He gives us BIG dreams so we can go out and fulfill them. - God gives us those dreams to go after, not to sit around an reminisce about.
3. He can do more with your big dream, then you can even dream. - check out Ephesians 3:20
4. People will try to discourage you from going for your dream - Weather it is in the form of doubters, criticizers, or those “just trying to protect you” from failing. Don’t listen to them!

One of the areas He has stretched me with this is the area of church growth. I have seen too many times churches that just don’t dream big and don’t have the desire to grow, because they think that they should just be content, and that God doesn’t want them getting to big for their britches. What a load!

The God I serve wants to see people come to know His everlasting Love and know the life that is found in Him. Why would he not want your church to grow. For all you church leaders out there struggling with this, know this, God did not call you into ministry to stay where you are and not experience growth. He will never think you are self serving for trying to grow your church through reaching the lost. Other pastors might, church members may, outsiders might say things mean and untrue about you, but the God of the universe will be pleased that you are reaching the lost and seeing lives changed.

Big Dreams are from God, don’t be afraid to pursue them.

With the 4th of July coming up I thought I would put out four ideas for churches looking to celebrate.

#1 Honor the Vets

Now when I say honor the vets, I don’t mean ask anyone who has served to stand up on Sunday morning. That is uncomfortable and not really doing anything to honor them. If you really want to honor the vets go to a local VA home or hospital. Visit with some of the vets, take some stuff to give away to them. Show them that you are thankful for thier service.

If you really are thankful for what they have done, go back more than just Memorial Day, the 4th, and Veterans Day.

These guys and gals have sacrificed for this country so we cn have the right to even have church. Lets be the church to them and honor them by serving them.