All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them.— ~ Walt Disney
"Every great dream begins with a dreamer."
God, the ultimate dreamer, has gifted us with the profound ability to dream. Yet, for many, the challenges of life stifle this gift, keeping us confined within the bounds of our comfort zones. Children, by contrast, dream effortlessly—of fantastical adventures and heroic feats—a natural expression of the creativity God has planted in all of us. But have you recently allowed yourself the freedom to dream? Or have you become so accustomed to routine that dreaming feels impossible?
Those who dare to dream often inspire us, much like the lesser-known figures of the Bible whose courage and faith stand out. Benaiah, introduced in 2 Samuel 23, exemplifies this boldness. He didn’t merely wait for opportunities—he created them, even in the most dangerous and unfavorable circumstances, like chasing a lion into a pit on a snowy day. His courage propelled him to prominence as King David’s bodyguard and eventually as commander-in-chief under King Solomon.
Contrast this with Terah, mentioned in Genesis 11:31. Terah began a journey toward Canaan but stopped in Haran, never completing what he set out to do. His story mirrors that of many who start with zeal but settle for less than God’s plan. Terah’s failure to see his dream through serves as a warning: comfort and complacency can prematurely end our pursuit of purpose.
The Power of Dreams
Dreams fuel vision and purpose. Yet, like Joseph, sharing dreams prematurely or with the wrong people can lead to obstacles. Joseph’s dreams seemed implausible to his family, sparking jealousy and nearly costing him his life. Many today face similar challenges—wrong associations, fear, or contentment that masks unfulfilled potential.
In Los Angeles, the so-called City of Angels, dreams often flourish and falter. Meeting a woman struggling with addiction while harbouring unfulfilled dreams highlights the impact of choices and associations. Her story prompts reflection: what dreams have we abandoned because of fear, wrong influences, or perceived limitations?
Benaiah’s lion-chasing courage serves as a metaphor for facing fears and pursuing the seemingly impossible. The Maasai warriors’ tradition of hunting lions to protect their communities echoes this bravery. Both stories challenge us to ask: What would you pursue if fear were not a factor?
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream exemplifies a holy discontent for injustice, driving transformative change. Like King, we are called to dare to dream, to envision God’s purpose for our lives, and to pursue it with faith and determination. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us of God’s promise: “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Benaiah: His audacity and faith turned peril into opportunity. He teaches us to confront challenges head-on, trusting in God’s power to turn adversity into triumph.
Terah: His journey to Canaan halted in Haran, symbolizing unfulfilled potential. His story warns against settling for comfort and urges us to persist in our pursuit of God’s purpose.
Moses’ narration of Terah’s story reflects the subtle danger of settling. Success and comfort can mask the cessation of dreams, leading us to believe everything is fine when, in reality, we’ve stopped dreaming. Terah’s excuses—age, timing, resources—are still common barriers today. Genesis 11:32 notes that Terah lived and died in Haran, a sobering reminder of a life that fell short of its intended destination.
Which character reflects your current journey—Benaiah or Terah? Are you chasing lions or settling in Haran?
God starts every great work with a dream. He places unique visions in our hearts, tailored to our purpose and design. No matter where you are, God invites you to step out and pursue the dreams He’s given you. Nothing happens until someone dares to dream.