God-Sized Dreams: A 30-Day Journey of Faith and CourageSample

The Backstory to Your God-Sized Dream

We all have a backstory.

You do.

I do too.

I’ve struggled on and off with depression and social anxiety most of my life. God asked me to leave a job with people I loved and take a step of faith without having any idea what would happen. Even after fifteen years and more than twenty books, I still have days when I feel crazy and wonder what in the world I’m doing, and the fear doesn’t just knock but bangs on the door of my heart.

God-sized dreams aren’t about being perfect, getting what we want, or things working out the way we plan.

Melanie Self said it this way, "The journey to our destination has not always been one paved with joy, smiles, and bliss. It has taken me to many dark and difficult places in body, mind, and spirit, but in every situation, I have found redemption in the Father’s love, leading, and plan. I LOVE sharing his story of redemption in my life. It is never too late to start. To be faithful. To believe. To Dream. God continues to quietly call to us, drawing us closer and speaking to the Spirit of God alive and active in our hearts."

I can tell you this, on your God-sized dreams journey...

You will feel fear.

You will fail at some point.

And you may even find that you have to let a dream go.

But I can also tell you, on your God-sized dreams journey...

You will become more courageous.

You will have victories you never thought possible.

And you will be filled up with what you really need, which is less of you and more of Jesus in your life.

We’re all weak and broken and afraid. And we’re also strong and whole and filled with the resurrection power of Christ. We are living paradoxes, and nothing will show you that more than a God-sized dream.

If you’re looking at all this God-sized dreams stuff with a bit of anxiety, let me just whisper, “It’s okay to feel that way. But dare to come with us anyway. Not because of where you will go but because of where this journey will take you . . . and that’s closer to the heart of God.”

Dare to turn the page on your backstory.

It’s time for a new beginning.

Go Deeper

Read about the Apostle Paul's backstory in Philippians 3:3-14.

God, I love that one of your names is “I am.” That means you are always present with me in the here and now. I want to embrace this moment with you and move forward too. I ask that you help me not dwell on the past. Redeem it and turn it into something that can be used for your glory. Amen.

What’s one truth you want to remember?

What’s the next small step you’ll take?