This book is a roadmap for understanding how our dreams align with our faith journey.
At its core, "Created to Dream" is a spiritual guide, emphasizing that our dreams, when aligned with God's will, are instrumental in our faith journey. God doesn't merely grant our dreams; He uses them as tools to sculpt our spiritual maturity. Each phase of this process is a testament to our faith, challenging and strengthening it.
The Six Phases of Faith
Dream: The inception of a dream is a divine spark. Warren asserts that God plants these dreams in our hearts, not just as mere aspirations but as catalysts for our spiritual journey. These dreams are more than goals; they're glimpses of God's plan for us.
Decision: Choice is a powerful force. This phase is about the decision to chase the dream God has placed in our hearts. It's a critical juncture where faith is put into action.
Delays: Often misunderstood, delays are not denials. Warren illuminates that God uses these periods to prepare us for what's coming. These moments test patience and resilience but are crucial for growth.
Difficulties: The path to realizing our dreams is seldom smooth. Challenges arise to refine our character, much like gold is refined through fire. It's through these difficulties that we often find the depth of our faith and character.
Dead Ends: Encountering a dead end can be disheartening, but Warren encourages readers to see these as moments where our faith is deepened. They are not the end, but a transformative point in our journey.
Deliverance: The final phase is the realization of the dream. Interestingly, Warren notes that this fulfillment often comes in ways we didn’t anticipate, serving as a reminder of God’s ingenuity and sovereignty.
Each phase in "Created to Dream" is more than a step; it's a lesson in faith and trust in God's plan. Warren uses biblical narratives to give these phases life, showing how figures like Moses and Noah walked similar paths. The book provides a comforting assurance that we're not alone in our struggles and that each phase has a purpose.
In today's fast-paced world, where dreams are often driven by material success this is a reminder that our dreams, when nurtured through faith, can lead to spiritual growth and fulfillment beyond our imagination.
