Embracing God's Supernatural Vision for Our Lives
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the concept of "Kingdom Vision," emphasizing the difference between natural and supernatural vision. Natural vision is our human perspective, while supernatural vision is how God sees things, often beyond our comprehension. We discussed how God’s plans for us are supernaturally conceived and require faith to be realized. Using the example of Mary and the angel, we saw that God’s vision often seems impossible from a human standpoint but is made possible through the Holy Spirit.
We also delved into the importance of understanding our purpose, destiny, calling, and vision. Purpose is the reason for our existence, destiny is the destination God has set for us, calling is the specific task or role we are to fulfill, and vision is the clear plan God has for our lives. Each of these elements is crucial for living a life aligned with God’s will.
The sermon highlighted the importance of seeing from God's perspective, using the analogy of a camera lens to explain how proper vision requires the right focus and lighting. Just as a camera needs light to capture a clear image, we need the light of God's Word to see our path clearly. The Word of God acts as both a lamp for our immediate steps and a light for our broader journey.
We also touched on the significance of identity in fulfilling our vision. Knowing who we are in Christ helps us to function properly in our God-given roles. The enemy often tries to distort our identity, but we must rely on God's Word to maintain the correct perspective.
Finally, we discussed the importance of running with the vision God has given us. This requires faith, focus, and a willingness to step out of our comfort zones. We must be diligent and proactive, trusting that God will bring His plans to fruition.
### Key Takeaways
1. Supernatural Vision Requires Faith: God's vision for our lives often exceeds our natural abilities and understanding. Like Mary, who conceived Jesus through the Holy Spirit, we must rely on God's supernatural power to fulfill His plans. This requires stepping out in faith and trusting that God will make the impossible possible. [01:09:21]
2. Understanding Purpose, Destiny, Calling, and Vision: Each of these elements plays a distinct role in our lives. Purpose is our reason for being, destiny is our God-ordained destination, calling is the specific task we are to fulfill, and vision is the clear plan God has for us. Understanding these distinctions helps us align our lives with God's will. [01:12:36]
3. The Importance of Proper Vision: Just as a camera needs the right lens and lighting to capture a clear image, we need the light of God's Word to see our path clearly. God's Word acts as both a lamp for our immediate steps and a light for our broader journey, guiding us in our daily actions and long-term decisions. [01:28:19]
4. Identity and Vision: Knowing who we are in Christ is crucial for fulfilling our God-given vision. The enemy often tries to distort our identity, but we must rely on God's Word to maintain the correct perspective. Our identity in Christ shapes how we see ourselves and our ability to function in our God-given roles. [01:31:37]
5. Running with the Vision: Fulfilling God's vision requires faith, focus, and action. We must be diligent and proactive, trusting that God will bring His plans to fruition. This involves stepping out of our comfort zones and not allowing doubt or fear to hold us back. Faith is not a gamble but a risk that requires us to trust in God's promises. [01:38:01]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:05:00] - Encouragement for Entrepreneurs
[01:07:47] - Kingdom Vision: Natural vs. Supernatural
[01:12:36] - Purpose, Destiny, Calling, and Vision
[01:24:24] - The Power of the Lens
[01:31:37] - Identity and Vision
[01:37:27] - Running with the Vision
[01:44:14] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
[01:47:06] - Final Encouragement and Dismissal
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Isaiah 55:8-9 (NIV): "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
2. Psalm 119:105 (NIV): "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."
3. Habakkuk 2:2 (NIV): "Then the Lord replied: 'Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.'"
### Observation Questions
1. What is the difference between natural vision and supernatural vision as described in the sermon? ([01:07:47])
2. How did the angel explain to Mary that she would conceive Jesus, and what does this signify about God's supernatural plans? ([01:09:21])
3. According to the sermon, what are the four key elements that help us align our lives with God's will? ([01:12:36])
4. How does the analogy of a camera lens help us understand the importance of God's Word in our vision? ([01:28:19])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Isaiah 55:8-9 help us understand the concept of supernatural vision and God's higher perspective? ([01:10:59])
2. In what ways does Psalm 119:105 illustrate the dual role of God's Word as both a lamp and a light in our lives? ([01:28:19])
3. How does knowing our identity in Christ help us fulfill our God-given vision, according to the sermon? ([01:31:37])
4. What does it mean to "run with the vision" as described in Habakkuk 2:2 and the sermon? How does this require faith and action? ([01:38:01])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you had to rely on supernatural vision rather than your natural understanding. How did faith play a role in that situation? ([01:09:21])
2. How can you better understand and align with your purpose, destiny, calling, and vision as described in the sermon? What steps can you take this week to seek clarity in these areas? ([01:12:36])
3. Think about a current challenge you are facing. How can you use God's Word as a lamp for your immediate steps and a light for your broader journey? ([01:28:19])
4. In what ways has the enemy tried to distort your identity in Christ? How can you use God's Word to maintain the correct perspective? ([01:31:37])
5. What specific actions can you take to "run with the vision" God has given you? Identify one area where you need to step out of your comfort zone and trust God more. ([01:38:01])
6. How can you ensure that your vision is aligned with God's higher thoughts and ways, as described in Isaiah 55:8-9? ([01:10:59])
7. Identify one person in your life who might benefit from understanding their God-given vision. How can you encourage them this week to seek God's perspective and plan for their life? ([01:12:36])
Devotional
Day 1: Supernatural Vision Requires Faith
God's vision for our lives often exceeds our natural abilities and understanding. Like Mary, who conceived Jesus through the Holy Spirit, we must rely on God's supernatural power to fulfill His plans. This requires stepping out in faith and trusting that God will make the impossible possible. When we look at our circumstances through our natural eyes, we may see limitations and obstacles. However, when we adopt a supernatural vision, we see opportunities for God to work miracles and bring His plans to fruition.
Faith is the bridge between the natural and the supernatural. It allows us to trust in God's promises even when they seem impossible. Just as Mary responded to the angel with faith, saying, "Let it be to me according to your word," we too must respond to God's vision for our lives with faith and obedience. This kind of faith is not passive but active, requiring us to take steps forward even when we cannot see the entire path ahead. [01:09:21]
Luke 1:37-38 (ESV): "For nothing will be impossible with God." And Mary said, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her.
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you feel God is calling you to step out in faith? How can you take a tangible step today to trust in His supernatural vision for you?
Day 2: Understanding Purpose, Destiny, Calling, and Vision
Each of these elements plays a distinct role in our lives. Purpose is our reason for being, destiny is our God-ordained destination, calling is the specific task we are to fulfill, and vision is the clear plan God has for us. Understanding these distinctions helps us align our lives with God's will. When we grasp our purpose, we understand why we exist and what drives us. Our destiny gives us a sense of direction and hope, knowing that God has a specific end goal for our lives.
Our calling is the unique role or task God has assigned to us, and our vision is the roadmap that guides us in fulfilling that calling. By seeking God and understanding these elements, we can live a life that is purposeful and aligned with His will. This alignment brings clarity and focus, helping us to prioritize our actions and decisions according to God's plan. [01:12:36]
Ephesians 2:10 (ESV): "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
Reflection: Take a moment to reflect on your purpose, destiny, calling, and vision. How do you see these elements playing out in your life currently? What steps can you take to align more closely with God's plan for you?
Day 3: The Importance of Proper Vision
Just as a camera needs the right lens and lighting to capture a clear image, we need the light of God's Word to see our path clearly. God's Word acts as both a lamp for our immediate steps and a light for our broader journey, guiding us in our daily actions and long-term decisions. Without proper vision, we can easily become lost or distracted, but with God's guidance, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
Proper vision requires us to focus on God's perspective rather than our own. This means regularly immersing ourselves in Scripture, prayer, and seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance. By doing so, we allow God's light to illuminate our path, helping us to make wise decisions and stay on course. [01:28:19]
Psalm 119:105 (ESV): "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
Reflection: How can you incorporate more of God's Word into your daily routine to ensure you have proper vision? What specific steps can you take to seek His guidance in your decisions?
Day 4: Identity and Vision
Knowing who we are in Christ is crucial for fulfilling our God-given vision. The enemy often tries to distort our identity, but we must rely on God's Word to maintain the correct perspective. Our identity in Christ shapes how we see ourselves and our ability to function in our God-given roles. When we understand our true identity, we can confidently pursue the vision God has for us without being swayed by doubt or fear.
Our identity in Christ is rooted in the truth that we are loved, chosen, and empowered by God. This understanding gives us the strength to overcome the enemy's lies and stand firm in our calling. By regularly reminding ourselves of who we are in Christ, we can stay focused on our vision and fulfill the purpose God has for our lives. [01:31:37]
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
Reflection: In what ways has the enemy tried to distort your identity? How can you remind yourself of your true identity in Christ and stand firm in your God-given vision?
Day 5: Running with the Vision
Fulfilling God's vision requires faith, focus, and action. We must be diligent and proactive, trusting that God will bring His plans to fruition. This involves stepping out of our comfort zones and not allowing doubt or fear to hold us back. Faith is not a gamble but a risk that requires us to trust in God's promises. Running with the vision means being intentional about our actions and staying committed to the path God has set before us.
To run with the vision, we must be willing to take bold steps and persevere through challenges. This requires a deep trust in God's faithfulness and a willingness to let go of our own plans in favor of His. By staying focused on the vision and relying on God's strength, we can accomplish great things for His kingdom. [01:38:01]
Habakkuk 2:2-3 (ESV): "And the Lord answered me: 'Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still the vision awaits its appointed time; it hastens to the end—it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.'"
Reflection: What vision has God placed on your heart? What steps can you take today to run with that vision, trusting in God's timing and provision?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "God would never create a world for us where He's not necessary. We will always have to depend on God in order to do that which He's called us to do. If there's something we can do in our own strength and in our own ability, it's probably not God. Why is that? Because we always have to be in a place where we're dependent upon God." [01:09:21] (26 seconds)
2. "Jesus said, you are the light of the world. It also said, let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Now, this word, light, is very, very interesting. Jesus actually said we are light. In other words, wherever we go, light always dispels darkness, right? When you cut on the light, darkness dissipates, or it disappears." [01:26:40] (36 seconds)
3. "Faith is knowing that if I put my trust in God, I'm able to accomplish what I could not do in my own ability and in my own strength. Running with the vision. Think about that. Running with the vision. Not slow walking or lollygagging. Running with the vision. How many know the Bible says if we put our hand to the plow and look back, we're not fit for the kingdom? Running with the vision means we are focused forward. No more looking back. We're focused forward." [01:38:01] (35 seconds)
4. "Despite the enemy's attempts to sow doubt and lead us astray, we must respond with unfavoring, unwavering faith and the truth of God's word. Like Jesus, we must stand firm, declaring it is written. Let us run courageously with the kingdom vision God has given us both individually and as a collective body of believers." [01:44:14] (25 seconds)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Now, your function changes based on where the Lord is calling you at that specific time in your life. Oftentimes, we transition from one season to another after we have faithfully executed what the Lord had for us at that time. Now, also, not only does responsibility and accountability come with function, but also protocol. Now, this word protocol, I have to really hone in on for a minute. Because how many know in the kingdom we can't be wild? We can't do what we want to do and serve in the kingdom." [01:17:07] (42 seconds)
2. "Now, vision let's talk about vision according to Matthew 16, 19 which we just read. Now vision is a clearly defined statement or plan for your personal life, business, or ministry. It starts as an insight within your spirit and is realized through diligently executing the well-defined course of action. That's the book definition of vision. Now I want to talk about the power of the lens for a minute. power of the lens. Now how many know that a camera has a lens, right? Now certain lenses have certain functions. In other words, depending on what type of lens you have it determines what you can see." [01:23:49] (47 seconds)
3. "Now, I probably should have started out with this, but I think it's very, very important. I want to talk about identity and vision. Identity and vision. Now, how many know that if we don't have the proper perspective of our lives, we can't function properly? If we don't see ourselves in the right way, it's impossible for us to function properly in that which God is calling us into. Perspective. That's the reason why I love when Apostle Jim was talking about us being sons and us being daughters. When we know these things about ourselves, we have the proper view of who we are." [01:31:04] (45 seconds)
4. "Now, I always like to quote Apostle Kathy on this quote that she says. Faith is never a gamble, but it's always a risk. Did I say that right? I think I did. Faith is a risk, but never a gamble. Something like that. But in other words, faith, requires us to step out of the boat. It requires us to step outside of ourselves to accomplish the vision that God gave us. The enemy will always try to get us to doubt what God said." [01:39:09] (36 seconds)
5. "Jesus was only able to respond with it is written because he saw things from the proper lens or the proper perspective. He not only heard correctly, but he also saw correctly. Now throughout scripture, vision and word always go hand in hand. Vision and word always go hand in hand. That's the reason why the Bible says, let me go to it actually, I like this scripture. Where there is no vision, the people perish. Now this word vision, if you translate it, guess what it means? It means prophetic revelation or insight or supernatural insight." [01:41:23] (44 seconds)