Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.In Genesis chapter 37, Joseph shares a dream with his family. His dream depicted him as a ruler and his brothers and family bowing down to him in his royal position. Well, his brothers, who already resented him for being his father's favorite, hated him all the more. (I can't imagine why!) Yet, the end of the story shows Joseph's dream fulfilled not with a spirit of arrogance, but the understanding that God wanted to use him for an awesome purpose.
(Hebrews 12:1)
This story reminds me of times when I have shared the dreams I believe God has instilled in me, with those closest to me, only to discover they did not share my enthusiasm. For example, when I shared the calling I believe God placed on my life to move to Lake Wylie, SC, to establish a new church, those closest to me were often reluctant to agree.
Not because they didn't want to be an encouragement, but because they felt threatened by a five hundred mile separation. Although the 11-year marathon was often difficult, the overwhelming joy of being obedient to God served as confirmation (and continues to do so) that you cannot base your decision to pursue a dream, upon the acceptance and approval of others.
Paul writes in 2 Timothy 4:7, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
Paul endured endless opposition in fulfilling the purpose God had for his life. Through all the ups and downs, he continued in the faith and established a model for God's people to follow. His passion for serving Christ inspired many to live a life of faith, even when it required dying for the faith.
In racing, the checkered flag is a welcome sign that says, "You made it!" However, there are many other flags the driver must look out for: BLUE: "A competitor is trying to pass," YELLOW: "Danger, slow down," BLACK with ORANGE DISK: "Mechanical problem stop in the pits," BLACK: "Unsportsmanlike, stop!" I doubt very seriously, any driver dreams of the day he sees any of these. No, they dream in black and white! But they are willing to endure any flag along the way, just to get to the finish line.
When God gave us the name for our ministry, He said, "I did not call you to start a race, I called you to finish it." Since then, I've developed a new respect for the checkered flag. You see, the finish line IS black and white. You either make it or you don't. The choice is yours.
Never allow the reaction of others, or even unforeseen circumstances, to destroy your dreams and goals in life. Especially when you believe it is a dream that God has placed in your heart to accomplish for His glory. So many others have made it. You can make it too!
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