[Follow] A Life Of PurposeSample

A Good Life

Follow your dreams! At least that is what we are told we should do. The great hope is that if you achieve and acquire the things you’re dreaming of, you will be happy. Yet, Jesus gives us a radically different invitation. He does not say, “Follow your dreams.” He says, “Follow me!”

Some people believe that God implants a dream in your heart and your job is to discover it through some inner searching. Once you figure it out, somehow that dream will unfold before you and you’ll know what to do with your life. I don’t believe it works that way.

Jesus is alive and He wants to be a relevant part of your daily life. He wants to lead you day by day. That is why He says, “Take up your cross daily and follow Me.” This is so contrary to the idea that I’ll find my life by chasing a dream. In fact, Jesus said, “If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for My sake, you will save it.” 

When we hear the invitation of Jesus, “Come follow Me,” we immediately find ourselves at a crossroads. In one direction is the choice to surrender your life with all your hopes and dreams to follow Christ. You give up your life for the life He offers. 

The other direction seems to offer greater comfort, more prestige, and material things. It will seem absolutely contrary to your instincts to deny yourself and turn to follow Christ daily. Well, there’s only one way you’re going to make that choice and that is to trust Jesus above your natural inclinations and the lure of your dreams. When you trust Him and follow Him daily, you find the genuine peace and purpose that satisfies.

God has a plan that is bigger than you or I could ever imagine and better than our own dreams and ambitions could achieve. Have you surrendered your dreams to Christ?