FROM THE PASTOR'S DESK As our nation, world, and perhaps even our lives experience turmoil, God has a message of vital importance for each of us. Pursue your vision -- even now! I believe God is urging us to push forward and pursue our life-long goals, dreams and visions. To assist us in this mission, we need to like never before depend upon the leading of the Holy Spirit to lead us in fulfilling the vision. We must also tap into our gifts, talents and abilities to draw from as we move forward and strive toward our God-given purpose and destiny.   You may be saying, "Pastor J, I don't have it in me.” “I have too many bills, my family is in crisis, my job is at risk and my career is in limbo. How can I possibly pursue my vision?”   Mark 4:19 says, "And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things enter in, choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful."   Even when things are good, people often doubt their capacity for success, and it can be even more difficult to believe in our dreams and visions when things are tough.   But it's important to continue to dream and pursue your vision because dreams are powerful. I'm not talking about dreams in your sleep, but the musings, daydreams, and God-given desires for your future. These are wonderful, inspiring predictors of what is possible for you, and often hold a key to your God-given destiny.   '”For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future...." (Jeremiah 29:11)   Don't be discouraged about where you are right now. Instead, start by simply writing your visions, dreams and goals in a journal. Then begin to pray about them, and ask God to show you the steps you need to take to build toward them.   If you only do one thing toward your vision each day, that's something. Keep asking God to bless each step you take. Remember every journey begins with a single step!   Incorporate these five crucial steps into your daily and weekly schedule to help keep your dreams and visions alive and pave a path toward God's destined purpose for your life:   1. READ (STUDY) GOD'S WORD DAILY It is vital to read, study and meditate on God's word as you seek His wisdom and discernment to bring your visions to light. 2. PRAY DAILY Gratefully pray and speak to God about your vision regularly, asking Him to reveal new ways for you to nurture them and bring them to fruition. 3. USE A VISION/DREAM JOURNAL Follow the advice in God's word: "Write the vision, and make it plain..." (Habbakuk 2:2) Writing about your visions, dreams and goals will keep them alive, even when nothing seems to be happening. 4. RESEARCH YOUR VISION Strive to learn as much as you can about your vision on a consistent basis. Borrow a book from the library, use the Internet or pick up a magazine, but make sure you educate yourself. 5. FIND A MENTOR Develop a relationship with someone who has accomplished, or is on the road to accomplishing their vision or dream that may be similar to yours -- and who is willing to help you learn more about the steps you can take to pursue your vision or dream.