Vision Destroyers
“Vision creates spiritual momentum, which propels us toward our destiny.”
Vision serves as the guiding track for our lives. Proverbs 29:18 tells us, "Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained." This underscores the necessity of vision to keep us focused on our God-given assignments. Mission drift occurs subtly as individuals or organizations deviate from their intended path, often accumulating unnecessary distractions along the way. God’s vision keeps us aligned with His will rather than getting distracted by everything else demanding our attention.
Habakkuk 2:2 states, "Record the vision and inscribe it on tablets, that the one who reads it may run. For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal, and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; For it will certainly come, it will not delay." This emphasizes the importance of documenting vision so that it can be clearly understood and pursued.
The Necessity of Vision
A man without vision is a man without a future. A man without a future will always return to his past. Vision provides us with a mental picture of a preferred future that the Holy Spirit imparts to us. True vision requires a death to self, allowing for multiplication and growth. When we focus on ourselves, multiplication cannot occur.
Vision and Destiny
I believe each of us has a destiny, and each church has a destiny. This destiny aligns with God's will but is not automatically achieved. Instead, God gives us a vision to guide us. Vision creates spiritual momentum, which propels us toward our destiny. Momentum leads to spiritual advancement and is maintained through spiritual warfare. Warfare is inevitable during forward movement, but it should not deter us from pursuing our vision.
Vision and faith are intertwined. Faith allows us to see things with our inner eyes before they materialize. Biblical heroes like Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Joshua had remarkable visions that seemed impossible to others. But they pursued their visions despite challenges and opposition, demonstrating unwavering faith. To fulfill any God-given vision, we must wage spiritual warfare.
Vision Destroyers
There are two kinds of people: visionaries and vision destroyers. As leaders, we must guard against attempts to destroy our vision. Here are some common vision destroyers: The first two come from Numbers 13:28-33 where Israel sent ten spies into the Promised Land.
Magnifying Problems: Some people focus on problems instead of the vision. Leaders must keep the focus on the vision despite challenges. Only two of the ten spies sent into the Promised Land could see past potential problems to believe the vision was possible.
Magnifying the Enemy: Eight of the spies focused on the enemy and they died in the wilderness. Deal with obstacles as they arise, but don't let them distract you from your vision.
The next ten come from the book of Nehemiah as he led the people to build.
Ridicule: Ridicule can be powerful and discouraging. Nehemiah faced mockery but remained steadfast in his vision to rebuild Jerusalem's wall. (2:18-20)
Accusation of Wrongdoing: False accusations can be damaging and very discouraging.
Betrayal: Betrayal and negative influence from others can undermine support for the vision. (4:1-3)
Anger: Anger of others can disrupt unity and progress. Leaders must navigate conflicts with grace and patience. (4:7)
Confusion: Disruptions can cause confusion. Clear communication and steadfast focus on the vision can counteract this. (4:8)
Distraction: People’s demands for unnecessary meetings and other distractions can divert your attention. Leaders must prioritize effectively. (6:1-4)
False Fear: Threats and tactics meant to induce fear should be met with courage and faith. (6:10)
False Prophecy: Discernment is crucial in navigating prophetic words. Leaders should seek counsel and weigh prophetic messages carefully. (6:11)
Intimidation: Bullying and threats from others should not deter leaders from their course. Steadfastness and faith are essential. (6:13)
Slander: Slander can tarnish our reputations. Leaders must maintain their integrity and trust in God to vindicate them. (6:13)
In conclusion, remember these four "Nevers":
Never allow a small vision to rule your life.
Never let those without faith in your vision talk you out of it.
Never let circumstances limit your vision.
Never let failure dictate your path. Get up again and keep moving forward.
