In the Bible, the parable of the mustard seed is told three separate times, in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke.  In Matthew 13:31-32, it is told like this: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field; which indeed is smaller than all seeds. But when it is grown, it is greater than the herbs, and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in its branches.” Why is this parable so important that it be used three different times by three different people? Read More ›

As coaches, we support and encourage our clients toward achieving goals in areas where they feel stuck. Many times the reason for feeling stuck is “fear.”  Fear of failure, fear of not being sure the timing is right, fear of rejection, and so many other self-sabotaging beliefs are holding them back. Some even fear success.

It is in these moments, however, that our courage and faith are our most important assets. As the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 1:7, “God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. “

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“Visioneering is the course one follows to make dreams a reality”, writes Andy Stanley in his book, Visioneering. The formula he shares is “visioneering = inspiration + conviction + action + determination + completion. We all end up somewhere in this life and some will end up at a place on purpose. “

I don’t know about you, but I choose to be among those who end up at a place on purpose.  When God plants a vision in our hearts, and we discern and obey, we find ourselves on a journey of great anticipation, not an easy journey, yet one of great hope and excitement.  Our God is the CREATOR of the universe and what a privilege, an honor that He chooses to do His work through us.  Surpora, a seventy year-old, energized, retired VP of Nursing and Certified Christian Life Coach through our program, said that she knew God was calling her to step out and do more! She wasn’t ready to retire and she hopes that she will be here long enough to “use all her talents and abilities” and leave them here on earth before she goes to her heavenly home.  What an inspiration and blessing she has been to me, and to others at CCI.

How Do Christian Life Coaches Help Clients in Visioneering?

As Christian life coaches work with clients in visioneering, we know that we must first help our clients create a clear picture of what could be and then to help them align their vision with their core values and continue to hold that vision for them.  In Visioneering, Andy Stanley writes, “encourage them to look beyond what is, and paint a picture of what could be –  and in some cases – what should be.  That is creating a vision.”  He continues to share the following instruction on “how”  to bring the vision into focus and weave it into our daily lives:

1. PASSION: Vision evokes emotion. There is no such things as emotionless vision. Vision is always accompanied by strong emotion. And the clearer the vision, the stronger the emotion.

2, MOTIVATION: Vision provides motivation. The mundane begins to matter. The details, chores, and routines of life begin a worthwhile means to a planned-for end. Vision-driven people are motivated people.

3. DIRECTION: Vision serves as a road map. Vision simplifies decision-making. Anything that moves us toward the the realization of our vision gets a green light. Everything else is approached with caution.

4. PURPOSE: Vision translates into purpose. A visions gives you reason to get up in the morning. If you don’t show up, something important  won’t be accomplished. Suddenly, you matter – alot!  You have a reason for getting up, and showing up!

God calls us to do His Work and He has a plan for each person in the universe.

I love what John Maxwell writes in his book,  Cure for the Common Life,  “You are heaven’s Halley’s comet; we have one shot at seeing you shine. You offer a gift to society that no one else brings. If you don’t bring it, it won’t be brought.”   “As Christian life coaches, we seek to honor the calling God has on each individual and we encourage them to honor that which God is calling them to do.  God has a vision for each life , and He needs each of us to do our part and to be obedient to what He wants to do in and through us.

God made each of us and then He broke the mold. There is only one me and He knows me, loves me and has a plan just for me.  How special is that to know?  “The Lord looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men. From the place of His dwelling, He looks on all the inhabitants of the earth; He fashions their hearts individually: He considers all their works”. Psalms 33:13-15

What is the vision God is calling you to? What can He do in and through you for His Glory in this broken and pain filled world? What does it look like? What does it feel like?  And, what is your answer to His calling, His vision for your life?

Sometimes I sit in awe of God’s love for me. He created such a variety of beautiful gifts for me to enjoy while I am on earth. Today, I want to look around and remember to say thank you for some of my blessings. How often do I stop to think how easy it would have been for Him to create only a few species of birds, or animals, plants and trees. And then I close my eyes and think of the joy that fills my heart when I picture my son and the joy he has brought to me in this life and I am grateful that God allowed me the privilege to be his mother. My cup runneth over with gratitude when I think of my husband planting flowers in the yard, my mom’s voice on the phone when she calls to tell me about last week’s Bible study with her “60 something youth group” (as they call themselves). No one is under 60 and they have such energy and joy to share with others. There are so many moments, and simple treasures to be grateful for today.

I am going to share a devotion with you from my favorite devotional, “Jesus Calling, by Sara Young”. She writes “When you focus on what you don’t have or on situations that displease you, your mind also becomes darkened. You take for granted life, salvation, sunshine, flowers, and countless other gifts from me. You focus on what is wrong and refuse to enjoy life until that is “fixed.” When you approach Me with thanksgiving the Light of My Presence pours into you, transforming you through and through. Walk in the Light with Me by practicing the discipline of thanksgiving.”

As you pause in a moment of reflection, what are you grateful for today?