How should we respond when sharing our God-given dreams with others? Verse for Today “Then Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more.” – Genesis 37:5 Setting the Scene • Joseph’s dream truly came from God, yet his eagerness to share it provoked jealousy and hostility. • The episode reminds us that a genuine revelation can meet resistance when presented without discernment or when listeners’ hearts are unprepared. God-Given Dreams Are Precious • They reveal a slice of God’s plan (Acts 2:17; Joel 2:28). • God expects stewardship: “It is required of stewards that they be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). • Treated rightly, dreams can build faith and bless others (Daniel 2:47). Share with Humility and Discernment • Proverbs 15:22 – “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Matthew 7:6 – “Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine.” Practical pointers: – Pray first; ask the Spirit whom, when, and how to tell. – Choose trustworthy, spiritually mature listeners. – Present the dream as God’s, not as self-promotion (“The LORD is the One who gives interpretations,” Genesis 40:8). Expect Mixed Responses • Joseph faced hatred; Jesus faced unbelief in Nazareth (Mark 6:3-4). • Romans 12:18 reminds: “If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone.” Some will celebrate your vision; others may oppose it. Guard Against Pride • “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (1 Peter 5:5-6). • Galatians 1:10 calls us to seek God’s approval above all. Ways to stay humble: – Use “we” and “us” language when sharing. – Acknowledge that fulfillment depends entirely on God (James 4:15). – Celebrate others’ callings as much as your own (Philippians 2:3-4). Persevere in Obedience • Habakkuk 2:2-3 – Write the vision; wait for the appointed time. • Joseph waited roughly thirteen years between dream and promotion (Genesis 41:46). • Faithfulness in small tasks today positions us for larger responsibilities tomorrow (Luke 16:10). Trust God’s Timing and Sovereignty • Genesis 45:5-8 – God used Joseph’s path to save many lives. • Genesis 50:20 – “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good.” • Romans 8:28 – All things work together for good to those who love God. Practical Steps for Sharing Your Dream 1. Confirm it lines up with Scripture. 2. Record it: journal the details, dates, and confirmations. 3. Pray for clarity and any needed interpretation. 4. Seek counsel from mature believers. 5. Share selectively, humbly, and succinctly. 6. Serve faithfully while you wait. 7. Re-evaluate periodically; stay open to God’s course corrections. Key Takeaways • Dreams from God carry weight; handle them reverently. • Humility and discernment protect both the dreamer and hearers. • Not all will rejoice—expect varied responses without losing heart. • God’s purposes stand; your role is faithful obedience while He unfolds the vision. |
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