Writing the Vision and Running with Purpose

Sermon Title: Writing the Vision and Running with Purpose Key Verse: Habakkuk 2:2 (NKJV) "Then the LORD answered me and said: 'Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.'"

Point 1: God’s Vision Requires Clarity

Scripture:

Proverbs 29:18 – "Where there is no vision, the people perish..." (KJV). Jeremiah 33:3 – "Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know."

Illustration: Imagine an artist painting a masterpiece with blurry eyesight. Without clarity of vision, the outcome is chaotic. Share a story of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments—God provided detailed instructions (Exodus 34:1-4).

Application: Encourage prayer and study of God’s Word to discern His specific plans for your life.

Point 2: The Vision Is for the Appointed Time

Scripture:

Ecclesiastes 3:1 – "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven." Isaiah 40:31 – "But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength..."

Illustration: Tell the story of Joseph (Genesis 37-50), whose vision of leadership was delayed for years as he faced betrayal, slavery, and imprisonment. Despite delays, God’s timing was perfect. Compare to a farmer waiting for a harvest—the process cannot be rushed.

Application: Trust God’s timing. Even when the vision seems delayed, remain faithful, knowing He is working behind the scenes.

Point 3: Write the Vision – A Call to Action

Scripture:

Deuteronomy 6:6-9 – "And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart...write them on the doorposts of your house." Psalm 119:105 – "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

Illustration: Consider Nehemiah, who documented his vision to rebuild Jerusalem's walls (Nehemiah 2:17-18). Writing the plan helped mobilize others for action. Use the example of a journal or vision board—physical documentation keeps goals visible and tangible.

Application: Write down what God is showing you, whether in a journal, on a board, or digitally. A written vision helps maintain focus.

Point 4: Make It Plain – Simplicity and Accessibility

Scripture:

1 Corinthians 14:33 – "For God is not the author of confusion but of peace..." 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God...that the man of God may be complete..."

Illustration: Share the story of Jesus teaching in parables—simple, relatable stories that conveyed profound truths (e.g., the Parable of the Sower, Matthew 13:3-23).

Application: Use plain language and visuals to share your vision. Whether teaching, leading, or communicating God’s message, ensure it is clear and relatable.

Point 5: The Vision Empowers Action

Scripture:

James 1:22 – "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." Hebrews 12:1 – "...let us run with endurance the race that is set before us."

Illustration: Think of Noah building the ark (Genesis 6:13-22). God’s vision wasn’t just for Noah to hear; it was to act! His obedience saved humanity and creation.

Application: Empower the congregation to act on God’s calling. Faith without action remains incomplete.

Point 6: The Vision Must Be Shared

Scripture:

Matthew 5:14-16 – "You are the light of the world...let your light so shine before men..." Mark 16:15 – "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."

Illustration: Relay races depend on effective baton passing. If the baton isn’t shared, the team loses. Similarly, God’s vision must be passed on to others. Highlight Paul mentoring Timothy (2 Timothy 2:2), ensuring the Gospel’s continuation.

Application: Share your God-given vision with your family, church, and community. Collaborate with others to fulfill His mission.

Point 7: The Vision Brings Transformation

Scripture:

Romans 12:2 – "Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind..." 2 Corinthians 5:17 – "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation..."

Illustration: Share the testimony of Saul’s transformation into Paul (Acts 9:1-22). God’s vision for Paul not only changed his life but also shaped the early Church. Use the story of the Wright brothers’ vision of flight—an idea that revolutionized transportation.

Application: Embrace God’s vision to transform your life and impact the lives of others. Trust that His plans lead to eternal change.

Conclusion

Recap all seven points: clarity, timing, action, simplicity, empowerment, sharing, and transformation. Challenge: Ask, “What is God’s vision for your life? Are you ready to write it down, live it out, and share it?” Close with prayer for discernment, courage, and faith to act on God’s vision.

This expanded sermon integrates more stories and scriptures to make it engaging and relatable. Let me know if you’d like additional illustrations or ideas!