Chasing Vision – Start Where You Are

Have you ever found yourself waiting on things to get better, circumstances to change, or doors to open before you pursue the vision God has placed on your heart? Have you ever delayed or held back from what you needed to do because of fear? I certainly have. But I am learning that vision begins now, not at some future date when I have it all together (which by the way has never happened so far).

Recently I have been asking myself this question: what if instead of waiting for the perfect moment, I began taking steps right where I am at today?

The Bible tells the fascinating story of a man named Nehemiah. Nehemiah had a dream to rebuild the walls of the broken-down city of Jerusalem, and he did it. His dream became a reality. This story captured in the book of Nehemiah is told from Nehemiah’s perspective, giving us insight into what he was thinking along the way.

In scene one, Nehemiah hears the terrible report that the city of Jerusalem is in ruins. Immediately, he begins to pray and beg God for His mercy and help. Then, almost as a footnote, Nehemiah adds, “Now I was cupbearer to the king.” (Nehemiah 1:11 NASB)

While we can’t know for sure, I think this note strategically serves to help us understand where Nehemiah was when the vision to rebuild Jerusalem was birthed. He was a servant, living in a foreign land, serving the king who held the Jewish people in captivity. On the one hand, the task before Nehemiah seemed impossible. But on the other hand, maybe God put Nehemiah in the exact place and circumstances he needed to be in. Perhaps God was paving the way for a miracle.

Let’s look at the next scene Nehemiah invites us into. During his time of distress, Nehemiah serves the king and cannot hide the sadness from his face. Previously, Nehemiah had been able to keep his emotions separate from his job, but not this day. King Artaxerxes begins to question Nehemiah about his heaviness, indicating he knows Nehemiah’s sorrow is from his heart.

Listen to how Nehemiah describes this moment, “Then I was very much afraid.” (Nehemiah 2:2 NASB) Nehemiah has a vision, and now he has a clear opportunity to share it with the king. But he knows that this is a turning point and things could go terribly wrong.

In the face of his fear, Nehemiah chooses to speak up. He explains his sadness is due to the desolation of his homeland. The king has another question, “What would you request?” (Nehemiah 2:4) I imagine Nehemiah’s heart racing, hands sweaty, feeling sick to his stomach. He knows – now is the time!

Before responding, Nehemiah prayed what a friend of mine refers to as a “flare prayer.” A quick petition for God’s help, right during the activities of life. After praying, Nehemiah boldly outlines his request to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the walls. The king asked some clarifying questions and amazingly agreed to the proposal.

When I read Nehemiah’s story, I can’t help but notice that he didn’t wait for the perfect circumstance to begin working toward his vision. He prayed. And then as opportunities presented, he took them without hesitation, despite his fear.

I remember early on as I was pondering writing, I heard someone say, “if you are a writer, write.” Hum… This way of thinking put the responsibility solely on me. So several years ago, I started this blog. At that point in time, very few people were reading what I wrote. My subscription list was about five people.

While I didn’t have control of who read my writing, I had control over the time I put in, the quality of work I produced, and most importantly, the prayers I prayed. The effort I put in as I began writing, opened doors for opportunities today. The discipline I learned in writing weekly, prepared me to publish a book. The enjoyment I found stirred a passion for more.

What about you? What does it look like for you to embrace your vision right where you are? If you want to teach, begin teaching someone today. If it is music – play, sing, or compose every chance you get. If it is increased physical health, eat right and exercise.

One thing I can tell you with certainty – your circumstances will never be perfect. If you want to pursue a vision, grow in a skill, or accomplish your goals, today is the day. I am not saying that you never wait on God; instead, I am saying that you have to be careful not to miss the opportunities God is giving you right now.

What is in your hand? Use it.

What conversations are you having? Don’t shy away from sharing what is in your heart.

What fear are you experiencing? Talk to God about it.

Just like in Nehemiah’s story, when God is in your dreams, He is working behind the scenes to make those dreams become a reality. While you may think you need everything to line up correctly, God specializes in miracles.

Trust him. Step out. Walk by faith.

And you will find that you can relate to Nehemiah’s experience, “The king granted them to me because the good hand of my God was on me.” (Nehemiah 2:8)