Write it Down
Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end, it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry. Habakkuk 2:2-3
While some of us may take a meandering journey through life, our potential is far greater than that. God has placed potential in us that far exceeds anything that we could ever imagine or dream. It's imperative to find clarity in what our purpose here on earth is and maximize it for the glory of the King and His kingdom. When our purpose is unclear, it can be difficult to stay motivated. To wander around in an unclear vision is exhausting and energy-draining. But when we have a laser focus on God's intent for us, our passion will remain ignited and keep us moving forward until we achieve success. As Habakkuk communed with God through prayer, God commanded him to inscribe the vision that had been revealed for all to be able to see. In that era, scribes relied upon a stylist to carve their words into tablets of clay. This task was labor intensive and the writers had to consider carefully what they wanted to be inscribed in order not to squander both time and materials. In a similar manner, God was directing Habakkuk to consider his purpose with intentionality. He wanted the scribe to make it plain —so that everyone who reads it will run in the direction of the vision. The words we allow to be etched onto our hearts should reflect what God has commanded us to do and become. We must use our precious time wisely and focus on matters that are of actual importance.
If we allowed God to give our church the vision, we would not only benefit from having an appointed purpose and direction, but also from greater unity among members as they pursue a common goal. With a unified vision, members can work together harmoniously to make strides in accomplishing their mission. A focused vision can also act as a tremendous source of motivation to help us stay on track when times get tough. Even if the vision takes a long time to come to fruition, we should not be discouraged — for God promises that it will surely come and it will not tarry.
Therefore, let's allow His words to serve as our guide in all that we do. Let's take time to write the vision, make it plain, and wait for it — because with God, all things are possible. We need to articulate our vision in a manner that is both evocative and persuasive, enabling it to ignite the passions of anyone who reads it. Crafting a well-defined vision statement keeps us focused, allowing us to progress toward our objectives with clarity of purpose. A vivid picture of the desired outcome propels us forward and inspires determination while overcoming inertia. With an unambiguous vision in sight, we are able to move ahead with confidence, rather than remaining lost or straying onto a different path. The vision that God revealed to Habakkuk was yet for an appointed time — and while it could take years or a lifetime, He promised that in the end, it would speak and not lie. Ultimately, we must have faith that our mission will be fulfilled; though it may tarry, with patience and perseverance we will eventually reach our destination.
As we strive to live each day with purpose, let us remember the words of Habakkuk and embrace a vision that is pleasing in God's sight. Let us faithfully write down our dreams and make them plain on tablets — so that when we read them, we will run toward the promises of God. For His vision for us will surely come, and it will not tarry.
Despite our best efforts to make our dreams a reality, God reminds us that fulfillment of these visions takes place in His time- not ours. We should never expect an uninterrupted path from the birth of our ambition to its realization. Despite the occasional setbacks, delays, and disappointments that life throws our way, we will never lose sight of our goals if we remain ever mindful of both the purpose behind them and who has entrusted us with them. In the end, God will bring our dreams to fruition and make them plain for all to see.
Let us remember Habakkuk's words — to write down our vision, make it plain on tablets, and run with confidence toward its fulfillment. It may tarry, but when it arrives, we will be ready.
Do you have a clear, compelling vision statement? What would it mean to you and your church to have one? How can you make it plain on tablets, so that you may run toward its fulfillment? Remember God will bring it to pass - and when He does, we will be ready.
