We are riddled with the need for “right now” as the years and generations pass; as modern technology invades every area of our lives the want for “it” instantaneously becomes stronger and stronger. So, why is it that God gives us a vision years if not decades before it ever comes to pass? We have all been there, right? God puts a desire in our heart. Then, it begins to grow. It even begins to take on traction. All of the sudden God intersects with the (dreaded) … wait. And, we cringe. We cry out. Every fiber revolts against the delay because that is not how we have become accustomed to obtaining things.
As I have walked this waiting game out (very intimately) for the past three years I have come to learn a few things. We all know the parable that good things come to those who wait. It’s true. When we have to wait or save or cultivate something for any extended amount of time we appreciate it so much more. I think that is how God has wired us. If He were dolling out blessings left and right we would become callous to them. We would not appreciate them or the One who gave them to us. But when we have to yearn; when we have to cry out for those desires of our hearts repeatedly God purifies that dream or blessing in us to ensure we are ready and mature enough to not only handle it but, also, appreciate it.
I feel vision is like those blessings. To be successful at something there needs to be countless hours of effort, sacrifice, obedience and much determination. I believe God places that vision in our hearts long before it comes to pass. Just as little kids, we all have a vision of what we want to grow up and become. It takes years in the making and many times our minds change to actually decide what that really is. We start with one career path in mind only to change our major in college (twice) before we graduate. Then, as if that wasn’t enough we need a larger degree in a totally different field because the first one just wasn’t working as we intended.
So why do we expect it to be any different with God? We are created to crave; we are wired to grow; we need to work toward something. Therein, lies the need for Vision.
What vision has God put in your heart? Are you cultivating relationships and works to achieve that vision? Are you continually working with Him to achieve all that He has made you to be?