11.7.7 "DREAM Checkup"

"DREAM Checkup"

Ezekiel 16:43-17:24
Hebrews 8:1-13
Psalm 106:13-31
Proverbs 27.7-9

"But this is the new agreement I will make with the people of Israel, says the Lord: I will write my laws in their minds so that they will know what I want them to do without my even telling them, and these laws will be in their hearts so that they will want to obey them, and I will be their God and they shall be my people." (Heb. 8:10)

Reading this verse is a great reminder of how important it is for us to know who God is. As we spend time with him, we know his character. Through the study of his word, we begin to find principles that guide us in any circumstance. We don't have to stumble around in the lost wondering what God would have us do.

God created each of us uniquely and has a special plan for each one of us. But as different as we are, He never changes. There are principles that he has laid out that are true for everyone of us. Knowing these principles helps us to grow in maturity and live a life of balance.

I think there are times that God's people ask "What should I do??" when the answer is really a "no-brainer". The answer is found in aligning to the principles God has laid out.

The DREAM is an outline of 5 biblical principles that are vital to the life of the mature believer. The acrostic of D.R.E.A.M. is merely a quick checklist for us to see how we're lining up to these principles. I've been sending out "DEVO DREAM"s for 30 months, but many have joined the list recently. It's good for all of us to just take the time today to take a DREAM Checkup. Am I living the DREAM?

Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship - How is my relationship with the Lord? Am I in a good place right now? Worship is my fellowship and communion with him. Is there anything that is "clogging" the communication lines? The "D" represents the principle of obedience. Obedience is the highest form of worship. Has God directed me to do something that I've not followed through on? Is there any thing in my life where I know I'm being disobedient? Is there sin in my life that I need to repent of?

Relationships Devoted to Unity - How are my relationships with others? Am I building others up instead of tearing them down? Am I living as a part of the Body of Christ, or am I off doing things on my own? The "R" represents the principle of Submission. Submission is defined as "setting aside pride, will and opinion to meet the need of another." Do I model biblical submission to those around me? Do I take the time to meet the needs of others? Are my relationships healthy?

Empowered Through Biblical Training - Is biblical training a regular part of my life? Do I consistently get into the word and let it strengthen me, or do I just "dabble" in it? Am I consistent to the corporate teaching of the word in church services, sunday school, bible studies, or do I just go through the motions of convenient church attendance? The "E" represents the principle of Discipline. Discipline means "to bring to alignment." Am I placing myself in alignment with God's word. Am I disciplined to study it?

Active Ministry Involvement - Am I being a good steward of the resources God has given me? This is not just a question of being involved in a ministry, it's putting what God has given me into his hands to serve others. The "A" represents the principle of Responsibility. Am I being responsible with my time, talent, finances and resources in a way that brings honor to God?

Mission to Reach our World for Christ - Do I understand that every part of my life is for this purpose? Am I living a life that points to Christ, or do I turn the "switch off" when I don't feel like acting Christ-like? The "M" represents the principle of Purpose. Am I living with this purpose in mind? Am I using every opportunity to draw others to Christ?


How did you do in this checklist? If we're honest, I think we all can find areas where we need work. Now obviously, knowing the DREAM does not mean you know God. But using this tool to bring everyday application to Godly principles can really equip us to live a godly life. Situations will come up today, and you will automatically know the right thing to do, because you know whether or not it lines up with Godly principles. If a situation causes you to walk in disobedience, you know the answer is no. If it's not devoted to unity... etc.

It ain't "rocket surgery"! ;)


Through the Power of the Spirit,
Live the DREAM!

P Greg


Dynamic Lifestyle of Worship
Relationships Devoted to Unity
Empowered Through Biblical Training
Active Ministry Involvement
Mission to Reach our World for Christ