Holding Dreams Loosely

Have you ever had a goal, whether big or small, that you would do anything to achieve?

Perhaps that meant arguing with someone until they gave up, enduring a difficult work situation to make it to the top, or persevering in a relationship that felt one-sided.

There are certainly benefits to not giving up. There are many things we shouldn’t give up on, such as loving others (especially difficult people), holding onto hope, and the promise of joy.

However, we need to hold our personal dreams loosely if we want to see God at work most powerfully.

A simple example comes from a photoshoot I went on today.

I was so set on taking a close-up of a seagull, and I was THIS close to getting it. I know, I know, a pretty minor goal, but it felt significant in the moment. After a while, I finally allowed myself to be satisfied with the farther back shots and prepared to put my camera equipment away–until I was met by a surprise.

A small bunny nibbled a piece of grass a few feet ahead of me. I have always wanted to get a close-up of a bunny, especially a young one, and this was my unexpected opportunity. By noticing this opportunity, I was given the opportunity to make a memory with a family member and be reminded of God’s faithfulness in the larger areas of my life. While I hadn’t set out to take a photo of a bunny, this ended up being even more meaningful than if I had achieved my original goal.

God knows us better than we know ourselves. He will provide us with the opportunities we need to grow and share the unique gifts He’s given us.

So when one door closes, we need to be willing to let it shut behind us as we are led to a different door. We can’t cling too tightly to our old goals when they may not fit who we are anymore. But we also need to be open to the possibility that pursuing a dream may lead us down an unexpected path–yet if it’s a path that God has prepared for us, then it will be even better.

No matter what, God’s got you. You never have to fear because He is always with you, every step of the way. Even when dreams fall through the cracks, you can always trust that you will fulfill your calling when you choose to follow Jesus. ❤

May he be enthroned in God’s presence forever; appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him.

Psalm 61:7