The Pursuit of a Dream: Finding The Faith to Follow Through

April 21, 2011

“Everybody’s scared to death
When they decide to take that step
Out on the water
It’ll be alright

Life is so much more
Than what your eyes are seeing
You will find your way
If you keep believing…

Overcome the odds
You don’t have a chance
When the world says you can’t
It’ll tell you that you can…

That’s what faith can do” Kutless Lyrics

Today’s a special day to me. It marks the two year anniversary of when the concept of “SHOUT IT” was officially born. At the time it came about I had just been through a very dramatic car accident on Easter Sunday a few weeks before and life was throwing me all kinds of problems. I was tired of the same old routine and just getting by. Then I encountered a very rough day of work along with a nagging physical pain in my chest. This pain had caused all kinds of problems a few years earlier that caused me to go to the hospital in 2004. I’ll stated it before in other places, that the phrase “SHOUT IT” had been on my mind for months, but I wasn’t sure what to make of it. In the midst of the pain and hardship, it came back, and I made my decision. I was going to live on fire for Christ and “SHOUT IT” was going to be my declaration to the world. “Why not put it on my license plate for all to see?” I thought. That would be a start! And everything began to snowball from there….

The pain quickly disappeared that night(it’s never returned since that night!) and I began dreaming. Dreaming of the possibilities of what I could do with this. The next six months proved to be the testing grounds for my dream. For redefining, testing, and asking God what He had in store for this concept. “The Dream” , as I dubbed it, slowly begin to formulate right in front of my eyes. I began to see how I could put my passion for writing to use and my new found interest in website design together. I discovered Facebook and the art of writing e-mails/messages to gain awareness. I watched Focus on the Family’s “Truth Project” and I found the core of the message I wanted for “SHOUT IT.” I wrote my first blog on November 14, 2009, and a year and half later it’s become a large part of my life…..

The odds have been against me from the start. I have never written blogs or articles before, I didn’t know that much about how to run a website, and I didn’t have a clear-cut plan of what I wanted to do. I just jumped right in and took a risk. Boy, am I glad I did! Along the way, setbacks and failures have become the norm. I’ve dealt with rejection, technical difficulties, busy schedules, time commitments, writer’s block, emotional heartbreaks, family deaths, and the latest setback–my website being down for two plus weeks. It was my biggest test yet and it challenged my faith in many ways. “Is this really worth it? Should I bother moving forward? Can I recover from this?” are all questions I battled. It was then that I remembered all the hard work I had put into, the potential of what it could be, and how I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. “The Dream” was not my dream to begin with, but God’s dream for my life. I resolved that no matter what I would stay committed and follow through with what I started. Soon after, “SHOUT IT” was back up and running smoothly again. And a fresh new beginning along with it….

Living out dreams is difficult for most people. They remain dreams mainly because of the fears that come with it. And with those fears comes excuses. Or perhaps we’re comfortable with where we are and don’t like taking risks. We want assurance of safe and calm waters as we make the dive headfirst in. If only we could see through the fog of what lies ahead we’d move ahead with what lies beneath in the deepest depths of our soul. But it doesn’t work that way. Christ beckons us forward from our boats of safety and security into the waters of the unknown. As we step out we see crashing waves all around us and it’s often terrifying. There is no sugarcoating the truth: We will be knocked down, stuck in places, and barely able to move on in certain periods of the pursuit. But Christ is always there, leading us, loving us, and calling us to Him….

We must keep our eyes on Him if we’re to succeed. Our dreams need to have a primary focus: to bring us closer to Christ. When we do this we’ll be able to draw others to the message of Hope and create lasting, meaning relationships with them. For a dream to be worthwhile it has to have eternal, significant value to other people. It can’t be selfish and carelessly beneficial to only yourself. God has instilled in very unique talents, spiritual gifts, and passions to further His kingdom. It’s up to us to use them and make the most of what He’s given to us. I believe each of us has “a dream” that God has instilled into our heart. Examples range from it raising a loving family that’s Christ-centered, a job that brings people to Christ, creating a charity to help those with a specific need, or raising up a ministry at your church. The possibilities are truly endless. It’s up to us to discover these dreams and live them out…

I came across an interesting quote from James Houston a few days ago that really has inspired me. He stated, “True Christianity is turning the possible into the actual.” When we live out our faith– anything is possible– because with God all things are possible! What God asks of us is to be faithful to Him and to carry out His will for our lives. To never settle for where we are currently at, but instead to strive to put ourselves in unfavorable positions and let Him go to work. Is it easy? No! There’s a reason why so many fail to reach their full potential. These reasons are many and come in the packages of fear, uncertainty, and discomfort. With the “SHOUT IT” Project I’ve been faced with many of these issues and more. There has been times of doubt, much frustration, battles of impatience, and instances where I just wanted to give up. Despite this, God has been at my side, battling with me, and seeing me through the process. I’ve grown immensely, see things more clearly, and am more prepared for what’s ahead because of it. After all, a dream is only a dream until it becomes reality…

Where do I go from here? The sky’s the limit in my mind. I don’t know what lies ahead, but I have faith that God has some amazing things in store for “The Dream”. I’m excited, nervous, and anxious for what’s ahead. For now, I have to take it day by day being faithful with the process and letting God go to work on what He wants to accomplish with the “SHOUT IT” Project. My encouragement to you is this: NEVER give up on your dream. It doesn’t have to be earth shattering or epic in scale. It can be something as simple as regaining your health or getting out of debt. Dreams come in all shapes and sizes. Keep in mind with any dream you’ll have challenges, trials, and tribulations that will come your way. The odds may be stacked against you, but keep pushing yourself forward trusting in God to get you to the finish line. You may stumble, crawl, or run in circles at times, but He’ll get you back on your feet–even if He has to carry you there! Keep your eyes on Him and keep believing that it’ll happen! And with eyes wide open you’ll watch mountains fall, walls crumble, and the flames that surround you– dissolve. Nothing is impossible! This is not a cliché with God! Start dreaming today and refuse to give up—Make the possibility, a reality! You’ve got quite a journey ahead of you!

Thanks for reading. Happy Easter!

~Kyle

The Motions of Mediocrity not Made for Me

May 26, 2011

“I don’t care
If I break
At least I’ll be feeling something
‘Cause just ok
Is not enough
Help me fight through the nothingness of life

“I don’t wanna go through the motions
I don’t wanna go one more day
Without Your all consuming passion inside of me” Matthew West Lyrics

Boring. Mediocre. Good enough. Getting by. Do these words describe your life right now? For many Christians the new status quo is sleep walking through life. We simply want to know what we have to do to get by. I know that I’ve struggled with this mangled mess called mediocrity for quite some time now. The idea that life can be exciting, engaging, and extraordinary seemed like such a novel idea but unrealistic. Especially when everything around me seems so routine based, ordinary, and uninspiring. It’s the recurring theme and message of “Same old. Same old.” A life of comfort, easiness, and pain-free remedy was my calling. But over the past few years my eyes have been opened to a brand new truth. A truth that shakes me to the core and wouldn’t let up. My life was meant to be lived to the fullest and it is attainable right here, right now. It all starts with something we call, passion.

Passion is often overlooked and frowned upon in Christian circles because we confuse it’s purpose and abuse it’s place in our lives. It is so much more than a personality trait or for the few that are full of pent-up energy. Passion is critical to live out for dreams. Passion is the fuel to the fire for our walk with Christ. I recently came across the Holstee Manifesto which I found to be greatly inspirational. Here’s what it says:

This is your life. Do what you love and do it often. If you don’t like something change it. If you don’t like your job, quit. If you don’t have enough time, stop watching TV. If you are looking for the love of your life, stop; They will be waiting for you when you start doing things you love. Stop over analyzing, life is simple. All emotions are beautiful. When you eat, appreciate every last bite. Open your mind, arms, and heart to new things and people, we are united in our differences. Ask the next person you see what their passion is, and share your inspiring dream with them. Travel often; getting lost will help you find yourself. Some opportunities only come once, seize them. Life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them. So go out and start creating. Life is short. Live your dream, and wear your passion.

Wow! Talk about a mission statement to live by! Although this is not from a Christian point of view, necessarily; it’s words ring true to how our lives should look like. Let’s dig deeper into the individual components of this manifesto and see how they apply to our lives:

This is your life. Do what you love and do it often. This is the most straightforward, obvious key to creating a life of passion, purpose, and unlimited potential. God has placed in all of us passions to further His kingdom. For me personally, my passion is writing. Although it took awhile for me to really grasp my love for writing, it was there all long. I just had to discover it and do it. I also love reading, sports, competing, and singing. Examine what you do in your spare time. What brings you joy? What do you long to do? What activities are you a part in that make time fly by? Write down everything you can think of; even if you currently aren’t doing them. Be honest, open, and very detailed!

If you don’t like something change it. Often times, there are certain passions that directly correlate with a cause that God has given us. I love writing and I want to bring people to Christ. In return I want to teach them the truths we find in God’s Word. When “SHOUT IT” came rushing into the scene, I was able to put my passion and the cause together. My calling was realized. For you it may be addressing Biblical illiteracy. Or World hunger. Or Bringing others into the presence of God through worship, showing God’s love through hospitality, or being an encouragement through counseling. What drives you? Who are you most compassionate about? What do you want to see changed in the world? You only have yourself to blame if a situation stays the same. The power of change begins with your heart and attitude. Be the change.

If you don’t like your job, quit. Alright, I know what you’re thinking…this seems harsh and unreasonable. But the principle can’t be overlooked. The myth of having a job just to put food on the table and stay off the streets is a very appealing one. Especially today in the horrible economic times we live in. But a job is so much more than making money. It is part of your calling and mission in life. You probably spend anywhere from 40-60 hours a week at your job–why not do something you love. And most likely you’ll be good at what you do too! Instead of dreading Monday morning, we could be bubbling with enthusiasm for the upcoming week of work! Although, I don’t recommend quitting your job; especially if you’re severely hurting financially, I do recommend analyzing where you’re at with your job. Do you like where you’re at? Are you passionate about it? Are you fully engaged every day? If not, reassess what you want to do and look for further options in another field, furthering your education, or moving in the company. Explore your options and don’t settle for what is. Strive for what could be.

If you don’t have enough time, stop watching TV. Ouch, this one hurts. We are a society who sets our schedules around the TV set. And it’s interfering with every area of our lives: social, personal, spiritual, physical–you name it. This statement is more than just about TV, though. It’s about the way we spend our time. Time is a precious commodity and it is not be wasted. We have to stop jam packing our lives with useless activities and obligations. Instead choose a focused life. What’s most important in your life? What do you value out of life? Is your life balanced or off-centered? Remember to keep God in the center of everything you do–not just first. If something has no lasting value or significance in your life–get rid of it–now! Take a look at your daily schedule. Make adjustments, throw things out, add the essentials—keep your focus on Christ.

If you are looking for the love of your life, stop; They will be waiting for you when you start doing things you love. If you’re single(like me) and are frustrated join the club. But stop whining! If there’s one thing I’ve learned over my past frustrations with finding the “one” it’s that it isn’t going to work in that manner. Stop looking. Start being. Be the “one.” Get a life. Establish a foundation for that future with that special someone. Become the person God made you to become. Do what you love and do it well. Then when you’re not looking—they’ll find you. And you’ll be ready for that next step; wherever it may lead you. Until then stop worrying and start living!

Stop over analyzing, life is simple. We tend to make life way too complicated. Every single day we second guess our decisions, fret over little details, and are consumed with things out of our control. Simplicity is a necessity. When I speak of simplicity I don’t mean sell everything you have or get rid of the variety that colors your skies. Instead, stop worrying and letting fear overtake your life. Find the joy in the simple routine of life. Get rid of the overriding fear of the unknown. Trust in God that He’ll provide for you. Stop trying to get ahead and stay ahead. Choose faith over fear.

All emotions are beautiful. When you eat, appreciate every last bite. Gratitude is critical in life. Without it we are miserable, unbearable to be around. It truly makes all the difference between a person filled with joy and contentment and one who is depressed, insecure, and selfish. Find delight in being alive. Appreciate what you’re been given. Say “thanks” to God and to others. Take nothing for granted. Make memories with loved ones. Choose joy over happiness–being content in all circumstances despite pain or trials. Cry when it’s time to cry. Laugh when it’s time to laugh. Remember Christ is all we’ll ever need. Slow down and find wonder in the details. In all seasons–choose gratitude.

Open your mind, arms, and heart to new things and people, we are united in our differences. This statement is an invitation to changes. To innovation. To discovery. Often times, we are stubborn and resistant to new things and new people. We like what’s comfortable and well known. I certainly fall in this trap. Especially with trying new things. If I don’t know how do something; I’m very timid and reluctant to do it. What if I fail? What if I don’t like it? What if makes me uncomfortable? To live a life of passion, we need to be open to new possibilities, ideas, changes, and yes, people. Throw out what you know and be willing to change your perceptions on the world around you. Meet new people. Learn a new topic to study. Try a new activity. Eat a new dish. Go somewhere you’ve never visited. Dare to be different and stop being complacent with what is!

Ask the next person you see what their passion is, and share your inspiring dream with them. Perhaps it’s not that we’re afraid to dream, but let others know what that dream is. What if they laugh at us? What if it sounds stupid or too bold? For me, sharing my dream of SHOUT IT Ministries was a very intimidating proposition. The fear of rejection was a strong one to shallow at first. But God was persistent in that I need to let others know where it came from, what it is, and my ultimate vision for this dream. I was very open about it and am relieved that did so! Be honest when sharing your dreams with others. Hold nothing back. Inspire others to join you in pertaining your vision if necessary. Together we can change the world. But if we keep our dreams at arm’s length– what good will that do?

Travel often; getting lost will help you find yourself. This is probably the hardest statement of the manifesto to really grasp. Does it mean to travel aimlessly around the country and world in order to lose ourselves? Or something more? I believe this statement is about discovery and the joy that it brings. We can discover things in our backyards, our communities, in nature, in museums, natural parks, big cities–you name it. The thrill of learning and taking part of the world around us can’t be overstated. We need to never lose the enthusiasm of enjoying God’s creation, discovering what he laid out in front of us, and in return actively participating in it. The second part of this statement is about self-discovery. Although the message wasn’t intended for the Christian walk, I think I found one in this: We must lose our own selfish ambitions, goals, wants, desires–and turn them over to Christ in order to be found. When we do this–we find everything we were made for–joy, peace, fulfillment, and purpose. Through losing, we gain everything. To summarize discover who God is and His creation–and you’ll find unspeakable joy in the process!

Some opportunities only come once, seize them. We only get one shot at this thing we call life–and there are doors that only open once in our lives. We can’t afford to be lazy and hesitant when an opportunity is right there for the taking. You may only get one chance to see a loved one again. One boarding pass to go to a third-world country in need. Or show a homeless man the love of Christ. Witness to a non-believer. These are the moments that define who we are. Learn to recognize them, seize them, and make the most of them.

Life is about the people you meet and the things you create with them. So go out and start creating. It’s all about relationships. Spend time with the ones who love. Make lasting memories. Don’t take them for granted. Don’t be lazy– learn about who they are and work on improving what you have. In the process–create a collage of love. Embrace creating new ways to love and serve them. Be innovative. Use your creative skills—just be you. Everyone is unique; accept who you are and take joy in who God made you to be.

Life is short. Live your dream, and wear your passion. This is the grand summary of the manifesto. Life is far too short to take for granted and to accept mediocrity. I see far too many people today accept their circumstances and just do enough to get by. And it breaks my heart… Every moment is a gift from God and we can’t afford to waste it! Dare to dream and ask for the impossible. God can accomplish things through you that are beyond your wildest imagination–if you only ask Him and choose to take risks. Live outside of your comfort zone—choose to put yourself in situations that actually require faith. Lastly, wear your passion. Be on fire what you do and who you’re becoming. Never settle for “just okay.” Keep pushing yourself to be better at what you do, love others more completely, and fall deeper in love with God. No more excuses. It’s time to be bold. Be audacious. Live as if you’re dying. There’s no other way to live. Remember these words to life by: “Life isn’t measured by the number of breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away!”

**I hope you feel inspired and motivated after reading and analyzing this manifesto–I know I did! The message in a nutshell is this—be passionate about your life and live out your dreams. We weren’t made to merely survive–but thrive! I’m still gradually grasping these essential truths on what a passionate life looks like. I know I’ve got some hurdles to overcome and barriers to break–but I am determined to dare for the dangerous and daunting out of life. Choose to say: “Goodbye ordinary, hello extraordinary!”**

Thanks for reading.

~Kyle