Vision Caster

Yesterday evening I was graced with a beautiful imagery while sleeping. In this dream I went home to visit my family and I had lost weight. I know that whoever might be reading this may say "whoop tee doo, who really cares" but for me this dream is a starter for me. In ministry, they say that one of the keys to success is to have a vision. I mean that's why people have themes, quotes, and scriptural references to counter a focus leading them to an ultimately goal. I think of the saying, " seeing is believing" and think of this dream. Because I was able to envision myself and how I would not only look but feel loosing weight, I was encouraged and moved to take action. I was encouraged by this stamped impression in my mind because I could see what my hard work would produce.

Just recently made a goal to discipline myself, so I created somewhat of a daily morning list of tasks. I wake up and I pray, no matter how my night was or how I feel. "No matter" had to be a demand with this discipline because like a lot of people I find it hard to present myself before the Lord when I mess up or do something contrary to my beliefs. But the truth is what ever is messed up or out of line in my life only God can fix. Amen. If we have done wrong God's the first person we should present ourselves to because God has the capability to correct all wrongs and forgive all sins. . This is the same reason why I make it a high priority to open the Word after I pray every moment. After my devotion I have to do sit ups and pushups. Sounds simple I know, but each week make it more difficult by adding more reps. But here's the catcher, the pushups were mentioned in the dream. In the dream I was cut, my muscles were evident and it was because I was persistent. Great dream right? I can still remember how I felt. I was so proud of myself but at the same time I was sort of nonchalant about it all because it became a part of my life style. This is what I want and this is what I believe God has called me to. I know that God is calling me to be healthier and I want to follow his command.

In either case, I was encouraged by this dream because I was able to envision my self and see the success of what my persistence could bring. Now know that I am not naïve and think that I can lose 15 lbs just doing sit ups and push ups alone. Duh. But this is a motivator. I have already been more conscientious of what I eat, especially since I buy my own food. Still need to break this soda habit. I've been on this Coca- Cola craving for like a month. I think they put the coke back in it! Anyway to get to the point. A big part of our success is casting vision of where we want to be or where we could be. Be a dare devil and even vision the impossible and see God work through that. This week I had the pleasure of hearing a pastor from Chicago speak. He created a ministry within the community, with little to no money. He thought it was impossible but God made it possible and now today he is the author of a book that encourages pastors all over the country. So, as we are beginning to break out of this insecure phase in our lives( notice I said phase because we are transitioning into something better) cast vision. Begin to see yourself as you wish to see yourself, without any thoughts of what others want. Seek God and see what He wants.

Disciple

I wonder if I would compare to a disciple. Can I even call myself as such, if anything, that's what I feel most connected to. God told them to leave all things behind to follow Him, and I have done the same. With little money I've left my home, to stay true to the home within my heart which is Jesus Christ.
But can I call myself a disciple quite yet. I have not ministered to the poor but I've conversated with them. Maybe I have ministered to one with a smile or a simple hello. About a week ago I smiled and greeted this woman and she called me sister. In that moment could we have ministered to each other. Can I be called a disciple quite yet as I try to find myself in Christ and lose the self I've created so that I can truly take on His image.
Would I be a considered a disciple yet? I have left my home to inquire knowledge about the Son of Man, through biblical teaching and action?
Am I disciple?