By Guest Writer Rachel Gardner

Legacy Ladies Note: Rachel just graduated from Southern Methodist University this December. She is my Sigma Phi Lambda, “Sisters for the Lord,” sorority sister. Rachel is spending next semester in Florida with the Disney College Program. As she heads into the next season of her life, here are her words of wisdom about how the passions and dreams within our hearts align with God’s plan. -Nikki 

When thinking about dreams we probably think of Disney movies (at least I do). Although I am a dreamer and a Christ follower, I never really viewed my dreams as worthy to be used by God because I felt they were byproducts of my human condition. It was only until I picked up 31 Days of Prayer for the Dreamer + The Doer earlier this year that I began to see how beautifully my dreams and His plan are interconnected.

“When God births a burden in your heart, lean into it.” – Andy Stanley

God thoughtfully creates passions in us for people and causes, and uses those to inspire the dreams that make a difference in this world. He creates the restlessness in our souls to dream.

A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps. – Proverbs 16:9

While there is nothing wrong with planning, we must remember He is the final decision maker. This could mean giving up some God-honoring dreams in favor of others. Faith is letting Him direct our steps. We should rejoice in knowing we are His vessel to share Light and Love, no matter what that looks like. Let Him take us deeper in our dreams than we could ever go ourselves (Ephesians 3:20).

Let your requests be made known to God (Philippians 4:6-7).

From personal experience, to know His peace is not only refreshing for your soul, but also changes your perspective. Fear redirects how we make choices. We worry about the potentials of a situation instead of the realities. Rather than have a mind divided, which is the Greek meaning of “worry,” give everything to Him: concerns, joys, fears, dreams – every ache of our beings is known to Him, and He still longs to bless us because He is love in its purest form.

How we spend our lives matters.

Creatively explore with God how you can serve His people. Do so joyfully unburdened because you are dreaming with the Creator of the universe at your side.

While we see a certain dream or goal as impossible because of our limited perspective, we know that nothing is impossible with God. It’s as if the more impossible it is, the more aware we are that it is Him at work and not us.

Remember, dreams do not satisfy – Jesus does. Even when dreams are realized, they will not provide the perfect wholeness we so crave as human beings.

My challenge to others and myself: Live life expecting to see what He will do next, instead of wasting moments dwelling on unfounded fears. Go forth fearlessly!