“…your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.” —Acts 2:17
Unless we are in our golden years, every Christian should be seeking visions from heaven. This is not something that stems from our own plans or wishful thinking, but is received with its origin in God. A vision from heaven is a glimpse into the future of something that will come to fruition, and usually involves a work of God in which we will play a role.
We cannot assume God only gives vision specifically to those who are in Christian ministry. Most leading characters in the Bible were everyday people with everyday jobs, but whose lives were directed in service to God. Proverbs 29:18 of the KJV says, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” God’s purpose for us must endure, which is why we need to be asking God to give us visions from heaven. It is a privileged blessing; a revelation placed in our hearts by God and is most often experienced in the midst of worship, praise and communion with Him.
There are three basic features in a vision from heaven. The first is that it will energize us. Paul writes, “To this end I strenuously contend with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me“ (Colossians 1:29). Paul faced many battles and obstacles, but it was with Christ’s divine energy that he was empowered and motivated. Visions from God do not evoke a feeling of drudgery that says, “I’ve gotta do this,” but one of eager anticipation that exclaims, “I’d love to do this!” Visions from heaven draw you, not drive you.
Secondly, God-given visions will be external to us in that they have an outward focus, which works to the benefit and blessing of others. In Matthew 16:25, Jesus said about discipleship, “For whoever wants to save their life (which is to be self-orientated, living for oneself), will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it”. God’s agenda for us is that we put others before ourselves, and become the means by which His love and compassion are expressed to those around us and the world at large.
Thirdly, visions from heaven will be eternal in their significance. Jesus said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal” (Matthew ?6:19-20). Treasures on earth are temporary, but in heaven are everlasting. This makes essential that wherever God has placed us, we live with eternity in mind. That is exciting, because when we leave this earth, the best has yet to come and our real treasures are just beginning!
← Older Post Newer Post →