Living the Dream: 4 Questions Every Dream Should AnswerSample

DAY 4:

QUESTION #3: DOES IT SERVE GOD’S KINGDOM?

Jesus said, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28). The gravity of that statement should force us to truly examine not only why we’re here, but also the purpose for which our gifts were ultimately meant. Make no mistake, God bestows gifts and blessings upon us to be used in and through us to further and bless His Kingdom. There are countless ways to serve and bless others, but may have a different complexion of methodology based on the uniqueness of our gifts.

My gifts are meant to impact different people than your gifts are meant to impact. Your arena for serving will look different than mine. The benefit of aligning our passion with our gifts is that we are more targeted and intentional with our approach when we serve. Being laser-focused is a good place to start. A narrow scope becomes a broader reach once we have refined our missional direction. I believe many people excuse themselves from the responsibility of seeking to serve because they have created a grand illusion that is set up to fail. Mistakenly magnifying expectations sets an unattainable bar that either intimidates or discourages.

By overwhelming ourselves with unrealistic expectations of the mission, we will most likely quit midstream or never really begin at all. Jesus also states, “If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.” (Luke 16:10). He is faithful if we are faithful. When we proceed with misguided motives of glamorized sensationalism, not only is our pride inflated, but we miss the mark of reaching the right people with the right message in the right season.

SURVEY SAYS:

An article in Time Magazine by Jenni Santi (date unknown) explains that Scientific research provides compelling data to support the anecdotal evidence that giving is a powerful pathway to personal growth and lasting happiness. Through fMRI technology, we now know that giving activates the same parts of the brain that are stimulated by food and sex. Experiments show evidence that altruism is hardwired in the brain—and is pleasurable. Helping others may just be the secret to living a life that is not only happier but also healthier, wealthier, more productive, and meaningful.