When we think about dreams, we often think of lofty, out-of-reach things that reside somewhere out there in our imagination. But when God is in control of our dreams and desires, we can dream big because He is a big God.
However, when all you want is to have a bed or a meal, it puts things in a different perspective. Of course, it doesn’t limit God or change His ability to provide, at all. It does, however, move the starting line back a little. A person can’t dream when they are busy surviving.
So many of the men, women and children who come to Faith Mission or Faith Refuge are just surviving.
John didn’t think he would ever be able to overcome his addiction. All he wanted was to have authentic relationships and a happier life. He said, “I finally realized who I really am in Christ.” With that newfound truth and the support of the men and staff at Faith Mission, his days became more than just surviving. After graduating from the Recovery Program and moving into the transitional house for men, he said, “My hope has been restored, and I’m starting to dream again.”
Donna said she just wanted to have her teeth fixed. She paused for a moment holding back tears and went on to say, “I would like to have my 17-year-old daughter back and have a relationship with her new baby”. Those dreams seemed impossible to her while she sat in her jail cell miles from those she loved.
But she found Faith Refuge. She said, “I became stronger by living here. I started doing things on my own and taking responsibility.” She and her case manager wrote a plan that would help her succeed.
She is now working on reuniting with her family, employed, and living in her own apartment.
I believe our dreams are important to God. But when life is all about surviving, dreams get put on hold. Helping people dream again is what we are all about at Wichita Falls Faith Mission. It’s exciting to see them discover God’s truth and His plan for their lives. Then they can thrive and not just survive.
