This question gives answers for dreamers

Carey Nieuwhof Feb. 27, 2023

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If you're like me, you get a lot of ideas and even a few dreams. But how do you if any of your ideas and dreams are actually from God?

Earlier on in my faith journey, I used to wait for "signs" from God and "confirmations" from God. It sounded very spiritual—do nothing unless God has told you to do it. But there are two truths around this:

1. Few of us actually apply this practice consistently in life. When we are hungry, we pop food in the microwave. When we feel like heading into town, we rarely pray about it. We just go. Why are some decisions "spiritual" and some not?
2. It's highly subjective. It's feeling based. How do I know I've heard from God and am not just in a good mood? What if God "says" nothing? Does that mean it's a bad idea? What if what I "heard" is indigestion and not the voice of God at all?

So over the last decade, I've reoriented my decision making around a more objective test: Scripture. More specifically, I base it around a question that sounds something like this:

Is what I am about to do (or dream about) the best application I know of God's Word applied to the present circumstances?

I have grown to love that question. It covers all those times we wouldn't naturally pray about something but probably should (hey—is my diet at all a reflection of Scripture's teaching that my body is God's temple? Does my trip into town involve a faithful use of the resources God has entrusted me with?)

Second, the standard the question embraces is far more objective. The truth is, God's Word is clear on so many things, whether I am in a good mood or bad mood, whether I "sense" God's presence or not—His Word just kind of lays it on the line.

Knowing how to apply God's Word to the present circumstances is something to pray about and even seek wise counsel about, but it's so much more objective and reliable than waiting for a "feeling" or interpreting the fact that the wind knocked over the umbrella in the back yard as a sign that God wants you to quit your job and move to Tibet.

In fact, it's that question that helped guide me and other leaders through our decision to become a multi-site church and all the change that it involved.

Wondering what question guides you and how you might find the question helpful or not helpful.

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Carey Nieuwhof is a former lawyer and founding pastor of Connexus Church. He’s the author of several best-selling books, including, Didn’t See It Coming: Overcoming the Seven Greatest Challenges That No One Expects But Everyone Experiences. Carey speaks to leaders around the world about leadership, change and personal growth. Learn More »

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