May 11 – Dreamers and Doers (Matthew 21:28-32)

“He who works his land will have abundant food, but he who chases fantasies lacks judgment.” (Proverbs 12:11)

IN WORD:
Dreams are wonderful. God gives us dreaming hearts because He wants us to accomplish things. In the heart that dreams, God can plant visions of widespread, effective ministries, of preaching the gospel and helping the poor, of finding innovative ways to build the Kingdom of Heaven. He can inspire millions and set the course of nations. Dreams are the beginning of all good accomplishments.
The problem with dreams is that they are just the beginning. In themselves, they don’t accomplish anything. They may be the fuel that feeds the fire, but they aren’t its substance. A life full of fantasies & dreams, no matter how worthy they are, is futile if no action ever springs forth from its ambitions. Though God plants dreams in our hearts, He does not simply leave them there. He expects the keepers of the land to till the soil, water the seeds, and cultivate their growth. God wants our visions to have a plan of action.
Jesus told a parable in Matthew 21:28-32, that illustrated that principle. A man had two sons. One of them said he would work in the vineyard but never did. The other said he wouldn’t but eventually did anyway. Which one did Jesus praise? The doer, not the dreamer.

IN DEED:
Do you have big plans? Do you have a vision you’re convinced God has given to you? If so, what are your plans? God is expecting you to take the visions He has given you and move them forward. Write the steps down.Then take them. Don’t let your dreams become faint memories of the night.
Are you unsure of your dreams? Still trying to determine whether they are self-ordained or God-given? Then ask God specifically to encourage the ones that are also His dreams for you. But once you know the difference, don’t let them sit. Ask for His timing. Ask for His wisdom. And act on His promises.

“Dreams grow holy put into action.” -Adelaide Proctor-