Have you noticed that the moment you establish a goal in your life, you start hearing people say, “Who do you think you are?” or “It can’t be done” or “Forget about it”?
The antidote to the voices of doubt is to instead listen to the voice of God. Just imagine all the critics that were in Noah’s life. “That guy Noah thinks God speaks to him, but he’s just messing up all of our property values by building that ark in his front yard.”
The Bible tells us that Noah listened to God. And what did he hear? He heard God’s warning that the world was going to be destroyed. He believed what he had not yet seen. That’s what faith is—being certain of something we don’t see.
So Noah didn’t turn back on the vision God had given him. Instead, he built the ark.
God is going to give you a goal for your life, and some people may think it’s pretty crazy. But you’ve got to stay focused on what you know God has said through his Word, the Bible. Then, you’ve got to go build your ark!
Talk It Over
- What are ways you’ve allowed fear or criticism to keep you from reaching your goals?
- What dream would you pursue if you were not afraid of criticism?
- How can you practice listening for God voice? {eoa}
Rick Warren is the founding pastor of Saddleback Church. His book, The Purpose Driven Church, was named one of the 100 Christian books that changed the 20th century. He is also founder of Pastors.com, a global Internet community for pastors.
For the original article, visit rickwarren.org.
Curt Landry 
Michael L. Brown 
Rabbi Eric Tokajer 
