Then it came to pass, at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh had a dream; and behold, he stood by the river. Genesis 41:1
REFERENCE
Genesis 41:1-7
A dream is a series of events that occur in your mind when you are sleeping; however, it is also something you wish for to happen, or someplace you wish to get to in life. Hence, having a dream can be likened to having a vision, foresight, revelation, or a desire of where you want to get to in life. Pharaoh in our passage had a God-given dream while he slept; and the picture of a dream here indicates that his mind was calm, his body was in a position of rest, there were no distractions, and so, his spirit was open to receive from God.
A new year is just starting, you have never been in this year before, but God knows all that the year holds, and He has great plans for you. Therefore, wisdom demands that you diligently seek Him for directions so you can get the most out of the year. As seen from the passage, the dream God gave pharaoh had national implications because he was then head of the nation of Egypt. Likewise, God will put dreams in your heart based on the position you occupy and the places you function in life, so you can function maximally and succeed in those places. However, your mind will have to be attuned to His before you can clearly hear or see the direction He wants you to go.
Pharaoh got his dream (revelation) from God while his body was at rest and his mind was calm. Moses went to a solitary place to hear God’s instructions on how to lead the Israelites and also to build the temple of God according to God’s pattern. Consequently, you also have to create an atmosphere of solitude in order for your spirit to receive God’s instructions. This means, taking time off your busy schedule, shutting down every distraction (TV, games, phones, social media, etc.), and retreating to a quiet place with an open heart to wait on the Lord in prayer and fasting. During times of prayer and fasting, your spirit is more sensitive to receive from God because you are totally focused on Him.
As you decide to embark on this journey to seek God for guidance, here is a list of items that will make your search fruitful. Ensure you go to your quiet place with:
- A bible
- Messages, books, and/or materials that speak concerning the matter(s) you need direction about, or in issues bordering on your areas of struggle.
- Something to write with – pen, paper, an electronic device (put it on flight mode).
Take time to prayerfully study the Bible, worship, and listen to your spirit. Also, do quite some thinking, planning, and writing what comes to you as you pray, think, and plan; it will amaze you what your spirit will pick up during this period.
In subsequent episodes, we will look at other practical steps to take that would adequately prepare us for the overall success of the year.
SCRIPTURE PHOTO
ADDITIONAL STUDY
Exodus 24:12-18, 25:1-9, Isaiah 30:15a, & Luke 5:12-16.
TO DO
Write down your dreams for this year and everything you think God wants you to accomplish.
Make concrete plans on where to go on a retreat this season and pray for the grace to follow through with your plans.
Forty days, forty nights and often! Holy Spirit help me to consistently walk with you! All the time, every time. Help me to pull back from the buzz & noise when I need to.
I ask oh Lord for your guidance and instructions for me and my family for this year and always.
Amen!