Dreams
By Roger Lipe
Now to Him who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or think—according to the power that works in you.
Ephesians 3:20
Every year I look at my team’s schedule of games during preseason and start to calculate wins and losses. One game I’m certain we’ll win, another we probably won’t, and still another will be a toss-up. Though each season is filled with uncertainty and challenges, the majority of coaches still dream about championships and most valuable player awards. What’s exciting to me is that God can do immeasurably more than all of those expectations combined.
In the Apostle Paul’s letter to his friends in Ephesus, he reminded them that God’s ability far surpassed their dreams. By means of the power that God works in those who believe, God takes us above and beyond anything we can imagine doing or becoming. God’s reality is bigger than any reality we could dream.
This means that God’s plans for each of us are even greater than any we could dream of on our own, and He proves that to us in the person of Jesus Christ. Who could have imagined a perfect God would provide a way for imperfect people like us to come into His presence? But He did just that when Jesus took the penalty for our sins on the cross, becoming the bridge to a daily relationship with the Almighty. Because of His faithful provision of grace, we can trust God to make provision for our lives in ways that exceed our expectations.
He is able to do immeasurably more than all we even know to ask from him. That is the greatness of God’s power in our lives. Whatever challenges we coaches face today, we can receive the confidence that comes from God when we step into the reality of His plans, knowing His life and power surpass our wildest dreams.
1. What are your dreams for your team, your family, your personal life? Are you able to set those aside, trusting that God’s plan for those things is far better even than your plan?
2. Is your influence for Christ limited by your human limitations, or do you step out confident in God’s power?
Extra Reading: 1 Kings 3:7–14; John 14:12–14; Ephesians 3:14–20
Lord, thank You that Your dreams for me are greater than any I could imagine on my own. In Jesus Christ I pray. Amen