Charting Your Course- Who’s Your Shepard?
Pastor Banks
4 minute read
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Psalm 23
Have you ever pondered who’s charting the course of your life? As believers, we are called to be led by the Spirit of the Lord. In our journey, there are five critical influences that can shape our course: I want to explore these points through the lens of Joseph’s life, a remarkable example of God’s dream charting the course of a faithful servant.
1. The dream is not just about you – It’s about serving the purpose of God by serving others.
Joseph’s life exemplifies this truth. His dreams weren’t merely personal ambitions; they were God’s plan to save his family and the region from famine. Likewise, our dreams often align with God’s broader purposes, calling us to serve others as we walk in God’s plan.
2. The dream should bring us closer to God and shape us into who He wants us to become.
Throughout Joseph’s journey, we see how God’s dream transformed him into a person of character and godly influence. As we pursue our dreams, they should draw us nearer to God, molding us into vessels that can fulfill His purpose.
3. The Dream has a delivery date determined by God.
Joseph couldn’t rush the fulfillment of his dream. God’s timing is perfect, and every dream He places within us has an appointed hour for realization. Trust in His divine schedule, even when circumstances seem contrary.
4. The Dream has a counterfeit version that will show up along the way.
Counterfeit dreams often arise to distract or deter us from God’s true purpose. Just as Joseph faced temptations and detours, we too may encounter challenges that test our commitment.
5. God’s dream. Stay vigilant and discerning.
The Dream makes us uncomfortable with where we are. Discomfort can be a sign that you’re on the right path. Joseph’s journey was marked by discomfort, but it drove him to rely on God. Embrace the discomfort as a catalyst for growth and a reminder of your dependence on the Lord.
As you chart your course with God’s dream, remember that it’s not merely about your ambitions; it’s about serving God’s purpose by serving others. Let it draw you closer to God, shape your character, and teach you patience. Recognize that God has a precise delivery date for your dream, be cautious of counterfeit versions, and embrace the discomfort that often accompanies the dream. Just as Joseph’s life unfolded according to God’s plan, trust that yours will too, guided by the Good Shepherd who leads you on paths of righteousness toward an predestined end filled with His goodness and mercy. Now I want you to try something, I want you to personalize Psalms 23. Recite it again, but this time, know who your shepherd is.