A Heavenly Vision

When David was young, Samuel anointed him to be King. However years would pass before David wore the crown. The vision David had of sitting on the thrown was vulnerable to his faith. For had David lost hope or faith in the promise of God, he could have walked away or rejected the plan of God.

Oswald states, "If we lose "the heavenly vision" God has give us, we alone are responsible--not God. We lose the vision because of our own lack of spiritual growth. If we do not apply our beliefs about God to the issues of everyday life, the vision God has given us will never be fulfilled."

David in the wilderness tending sheep had much time to ponder the hand of God: the power and the might of the Almighty. This certainly played into his faith which slayed the lion and the bear. Likewise, it was these successes in the wilderness that boosted his faith in the power of God's hand, when he charged after Goliath the giant Philistine. The vision of God was clear in his mind and he served the vision with passion and devotion.

Years later, David would remain obedient to the vision God had given him, though King Saul--filled with jealous rage--sought to destroy him. How many times did David choose to hold onto the vision when all seemed lost under the terror of Saul's hatred? The Lord's servant chose at least once per day to exercise faith in God. For day by day David had to make choices to remain in God's favor and grace: to stay upon the path that would lead to the throne. Unlike Saul, who lost hold of the Lord's vision for his life, David kept his heart and his plans before God and his steps were blessed.

How long must we wait for the vision God has given to us? Only heaven knows. However, when we consider the faithfulness of God and the good He surely has in store for us, we find the strength to hold on one more day.

Yet, holding on is not enough for the vision to come into fruition. We hold responsibility in bringing about the vision. Daily efforts are necessary. Whether they be limited to prayer covering alone, or a series of tasks, our commitment is of great importance. And while, "we cannot bring the vision to fulfillment through our own efforts," we must live moment by moment serving the call, so the vision may be fulfilled. For some this may require a to do list. For others it may require waiting for the Lord to move.

Just as David had to face the threats of: the lion, bear, his brothers, Goliath, Saul and later his own son, we too will face forces which desire to destroy us. These storms are allowed in order that our faith be strengthened: that we become resolved in our service to the vision. For when we fight in the power of God, we will succeed according to God's perfect will. Like David we will find the blessings and favor of our Lord. Oswald points us to the words in John 15:8 "if you allow God to plant you, you will 'bear much fruit.'"

Holding onto the vision of God for our life is not for the weak or fearful. We must be strong and courageous, ready to fight, obedient and steadfast. The vision God has for you is glorious and worthy of our sacrifice! If you feel you are lacking in these areas, PRAY for God to build them in your life! Do not allow the enemy to turn your head or cloud your vision with doubt and fear. Pray the devil away and see how the Lord will grant you might to succeed.

Borrowing the lyrics from the music group, Mercy Me:
Hold fast, Help is on the way, Hold fast, He's come to save the day, What I've learned in my life, One thing stronger than my strife, Is His grasp, So hold fast."

Hold fast to the vision! God does not tarry! In due time you will bring great glory to our King!