I first heard this phrase in a song – Living the American Dream indicated a woman with a husband, home, and family. As much as I love the picture that the song painted, I got a little hung up on it. Was the American dream limited to happy couples with a home and children? What exactly is the American dream?
As I began to investigate what it means to live the American dream, I found that it wasn’t so much a specific scenario, but perhaps rather something much more important.
The foundations of a dream
Part of what makes America special is that it is a land of opportunity. We aren’t locked in to a vocation, city, or a level of education. Through hard work and persistence we can become just about anything we set our mind to!
Another vital part of America is the Christian faith it is founded on. The importance of self government and self control are paramount in pursing any goal or dream. The founders of our country certainly understood this! They knew that in order for future generations to flourish, they would need to establish this country with a strong foundation.
A strong foundation is vital when dreaming about what’s ahead. As Scripture says, we must build our house on a rock, or in other words our dreams and plans on a strong, Christian foundation. If we will commit our ways to the Lord, our plans will be established.
Discovering your dream
Now that you understand how important a strong foundation is, you can begin to realize the dreams that God has placed in you. These dreams will always be in accordance with His Word and will never lead you against His commandments.
His Word and His commandments are excellent tools to use when navigating life, to determine right from wrong. But in order to use these tools well, we must be very familiar with them. Scripture says that if we will draw near to God – pursue Him and fill our mind with His word – He will draw near to us. A close relationship with God is as simple and complicated as that.
As we grow closer to Him, He will direct our steps and make the way clear. Step by step, inch by inch. We don’t often see more than a step or two ahead, but we can be sure that He sees the whole picture and knows precisely how to lead!
Realizing your dream
One of my favorite things to ask God is that He would make His plans my dreams. I know that His plans are perfect and I want to fully embrace what He has for me! As I go about my work and my day, I listen for His promptings.
Not always are these promptings clear and obvious, but sometimes rather just a hint. But as time goes on and things unfold I can see everything come together like a puzzle. It is truly amazing!
And the knowledge of Him working everything together perfectly has me aspiring to live at ease, not worrying about the details, knowing that He always brings things together perfectly. And as long as I keep my focus on Him and His perfect plan, I am living the American dream!
Until Next Time!
Hope.
PS. Keep reading: https://www.theamericanlady.com/2018/04/11/your-plans-my-dreams/