#newthing #bigdreams by: Deborah Ard
Are you a dreamer? Are you a risk taker? Are you invigorated by new challenges? Usually Julie and I like to play it safe and follow the steps laid out in a logical order. Both Julie and I find comfort in the known. We like to follow a schedule. You might say we are somewhat predictable. However God likes to stretch us and challenge us into the unknown.

For several years the below scripture has meant a lot to Julie and I.
“’Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.’’ Isaiah 43:18-19 NIV
God seems to send it to us just when we need it. To me this scripture holds so much excitement but it can also be scary and intimidating. I like to make excuses. I am too old to do something new. I don’t have time or it’s not the right time. I don’t have the money. The list of excuses can go on and on.
God has used each of you reading our blog to grow Julie and I in the ministry God has called us to at this time. Initially, Julie and I felt we were not equipped to write, much less have a blog. As you may know, in the beginning our posts were sporadic and less intentionally planned. However, over time God has revealed more and more of what steps we should take to grow in ministry. Through our obedience, Julie and I have grown and been blessed repeatedly.
Right now take a few moments to close your eyes and dream. What is you biggest dream? Is it career related? Family related? Spiritual-life related? Imagine if age, time, money, etc. would cause no hindrance. And then you have a God-sized dream! God wants us all to dream big dreams. And with the help of our Creator, we can accomplish those big dreams. God wants you to step into the new that is sent your way. The God of the Universe wants you to trust and obey that the path ahead is in your best interest. And we must remember that nothing is impossible with God.
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV
Today I ask that you meditate on these scriptures and what they mean to you at this moment. Is the “new thing” God is doing in your life a new experience, a new attitude, a new season, or even healing? Then pray for revelation on your next step and then take that step! Once you do, God will reveal the next step and the next step. Before you know it you will be moving toward that God-sized dream! And to God be the glory!!!

Picture featured is from Toby Mac’s Speak Life