For many, January is a time to set fresh goals and nurture new hopes.
Yet, uncertainty about the future and doubts about our own abilities can often hold us back from taking meaningful steps forward.
The start of a new year is not just a change in date — it’s an invitation to reflect, reset, and reach for something greater.
Dreams are the seeds of progress, innovation, and transformation.
Throughout history, individuals and communities have been propelled forward by visions that seemed impossible at first.
However, the journey from dream to reality is rarely straightforward.
Many people hesitate, unsure of what lies ahead and uncertain of their own potential.
Perceived shortcomings, fear of failure and the weight of past disappointments can prevent us from pursuing the dreams that stir within us.
The invitation to “dream big” is not about chasing personal ambition, but about aligning our aspirations with God’s greater purpose.
As the Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 3:20, God “is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine’’.
The greatest dreams are not realised through our own strength, but through surrender to His will.
This perspective transforms the way we approach our goals — not as solitary endeavours, but as opportunities to participate in something far larger than ourselves.
History offers powerful examples of what can happen when ordinary people trust God with extraordinary dreams.
In 1952, a young man named George Verwer, with no formal ministry training and few resources, felt compelled to serve after a life-changing experience at a Billy Graham rally.
Armed with little more than faith and a suitcase of gospel tracts, Verwer set out for Mexico, praying simply: “Lord, let me take Your Word to the nations.”
That single act of obedience became the foundation for Operation Mobilisation (OM), which has since grown into one of the world’s largest missionary movements, active in more than 100 countries.
Verwer often remarked, “I wasn’t God’s first choice. I wasn’t even His second. But I was willing’’.
His journey is a testament to the idea that God does not require extraordinary people — only surrendered hearts. From such surrender, dreams can emerge that transform communities and even nations.
As we look to the future, each of us carries dreams — some bold, some quiet, some long forgotten.
The same God who called a teenager to global ministry calls us today.
This year, let us dream big — not because of our own abilities, but because of God’s limitless power.
- Dream big for your family. Imagine the impact of faith-filled goals on relationships, parenting, and home life.
- Dream big for your ministry. Whether you serve in a church, or a nonprofit organisation, or simply through acts of kindness, your willingness to step out in faith can inspire others. The scope of God’s work is global, and every act of faith contributes to a larger story.
- Dream big for your community. Communities thrive when individuals pursue visions of justice, compassion, and unity.
Three encouragements for 2026
- Begin With Surrender: Approach the year with open hands. Ask, “What does God desire to accomplish through my life this year?” Surrender is not passive—it’s an active choice to trust and follow, even when the path is unclear.
- Measure Dreams by God’s Ability, Not Your Own: If your vision seems beyond your capacity, it may be a sign that God is in it. Throughout scripture and history, God delights in using unlikely people for extraordinary purposes.
- Take Action in Faith: Progress comes through obedience, not perfection. One step of faith can alter the course of your life. Don’t wait for perfect conditions—move forward with what you have, trusting that God will provide what you need along the way.
As the world marks new beginnings, consider this invitation: Trust God.
Dream with Him. Walk with Him.
The story of George Verwer and Operation Mobilisation demonstrates that even the smallest seed of faith can spark a global movement.
Imagine what God could do through you in 2026.
May this year be one where you dare to dream big — not because the calendar has changed, but because your God is without limits.
The possibilities are endless when faith meets action, and the world is waiting for those willing to dream with God.
Pastor Samuel Jacob
Lifesource Church, Echuca
36°C