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Mentoring the Next Generation: Investing in Youth and Children

What is Mentorship

Mentoring is a relational process in which a more experienced or knowledgeable individual provides guidance, support, and encouragement to a less experienced or knowledgeable individual. It involves sharing wisdom, knowledge, and insights to help the mentee develop specific skills, reach their goals, and navigate personal challenges.
Mentoring requires genuine care, patience, and commitment. The significance lies in the transformative impact it can have on the lives of young people as they grow in their faith and relationship with God.

The Role and Significance of a Mentor 

Mentors assume the role of a trusted advisor, offering wisdom, experience, and encouragement. Let’s take a look at some of the specific ways a faith-based mentor can provide counsel for a younger person. 

• Nurturing a Solid Foundation: Young people are at a critical stage of their lives where they are forming their beliefs, values, and worldview. By nurturing their spiritual growth, you equip them with a framework to make wise decisions, face adversity, and find hope and meaning in a world that often offers conflicting messages and values. When you guide them in understanding core beliefs, Biblical principles, and the teachings of Christianity, you play a vital role in helping youth build a solid spiritual foundation that can sustain them throughout their lives. 
• Personal Discipleship: Mentoring offers a unique opportunity for one-on-one discipleship where a mentor walks alongside a young person, helping them deepen their relationship with God and grow in their understanding of His Word. Through intentional conversations, prayer, and shared experiences, mentors can provide guidance and support, helping youth navigate their spiritual journey.
• Modeling Christ-like Behavior: Young people often learn by observing and imitating others. Mentoring allows you to model Christ-like behavior and values in your interactions with the young person. A mentor who exemplifies a vibrant and authentic faith can inspire and influence the youth to live out their own faith with dedication and passion. When the youth is witness to a mentor’s ability to exemplify love, compassion, integrity, and forgiveness, you can help them understand what it means to live out their faith in practical ways and motivate them to integrate their own faith into everyday life. 
• Providing Moral Guidance and Wisdom: The journey of faith can be filled with questions, doubts, and challenges. Mentors can offer guidance, wisdom, and Biblical perspectives to help young people navigate these complexities. They can address theological inquiries, provide moral guidance, and offer practical advice based on their own experiences, helping youth make informed decisions and choices.
• Encourage Resilience and Steadfastness: In a world that often challenges or dismisses faith, mentoring can help young people develop resilience and steadfastness in their beliefs. By providing a listening ear, addressing doubts and questions, and sharing stories of faith, you can help them navigate doubts, strengthen their convictions, and persevere in their spiritual journey.
• Navigating Challenges: Young people face unique challenges in today's world. Mentoring provides an opportunity to address those challenges through the lens of Christian faith. By offering guidance, support, and biblical principles, you can help young people navigate issues such as identity, relationships, ethics, and societal pressures with a solid foundation in Christ.
• Identity and Purpose: Many young people grapple with questions of identity, purpose, and meaning. By mentoring them, you can help them explore how their faith informs their sense of identity and purpose, enabling them to discover their unique gifts and talents in service to God and others.
• Fostering Responsibility and Direction: A mentor can provide a safe space for youth to share their struggles, doubts, and victories. By facilitating an environment of trust and accountability, mentors can support young people in overcoming obstacles, provide encouragement during difficult times, and celebrate their spiritual growth milestones.
• Community and Accountability: Mentoring can connect young people to a supportive community of believers. By fostering relationships within the church or faith-based organizations, you can help them establish connections with peers and mentors who can walk alongside them in their faith journey, providing support, fortitude, and commitment.
• Investing in Future Leaders: Mentoring young people in their Christian faith contributes to the development of future leaders within the church and society. By equipping them with a deep understanding of Christianity and aiding in the discovery of their unique gifts, talents, and passions, mentors can guide young people in identifying areas where they can serve and make a positive impact, carrying forward the teachings of Christ. 
• Passing on the Faith: Christianity has a rich heritage and a body of knowledge that has been passed down through generations. Mentoring allows you to share the teachings, traditions, and values of the Christian faith with young people, ensuring its continuity and passing on the wisdom and insights you have gained.

Ultimately, mentoring youth in their faith is a way to live out the call to love and serve others, and to pass on the life-transforming message of Jesus Christ to the next generation.

Benefits of Mentorship

Faith-based mentoring is primarily focused on the growth and development of the mentee, it also offers personal benefits to the mentor. The mutual exchange of wisdom, support, and encouragement fosters a reciprocal relationship where both parties can experience personal growth and enhanced faith.

• Mentorship Deepens Faith: Faith-based mentoring allows both the mentor and mentee to explore and deepen their own faith. Through discussions, study, prayer, and shared experiences, both parties can gain a deeper understanding of their beliefs, strengthen their spiritual practices, and grow in their relationship with God.
• Mentorship Promotes a Sense of Purpose: Mentoring others in their faith can provide a strong sense of purpose and fulfillment. It allows individuals to use their knowledge, experiences, and gifts to make a positive impact in someone else's life, contributing to God's work.
• Mentorship Ignites Growth and Learning: Both the mentor and mentee have opportunities for personal growth and learning through the mentoring relationship. The mentor can grow their faith by gaining new insights from the mentee's perspectives, and learn from the mentee's experiences. The mentee, in turn, can learn from the mentor's wisdom, experiences, and guidance.
• Mentorship Imparts Accountability and Spiritual Growth: Engaging in a mentorship relationship fosters accountability and encourages personal spiritual growth. The mentor’s accountability in providing guidance and support, and accountability to the mentee, helps them both stay on track with their spiritual goals and encourages them in their faith journey, and holds them liable to live according to their beliefs.
• Mentorship Delivers an Increase in Self-Awareness: As mentors guide and support others, they often gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their own faith. The process of mentoring can prompt self-reflection, introspection, and the recognition of areas for personal growth and development.
• Mentorship Builds Meaningful Relationships: Faith-based mentoring creates an opportunity to build meaningful relationships based on shared values and beliefs. Mentors and mentees can form deep connections, develop lifelong friendships, and support one another on their spiritual journeys.
• Mentorship Brings a Sense of Joy and Fulfillment: Witnessing the growth, transformation, and flourishing of the mentee can bring immense joy and fulfillment to the mentor. Seeing the mentee develop in their faith, overcome challenges, and live out their purpose can be a source of great joy and encouragement.
• Mentorship Produces Personal Transformation: Mentoring is a two-way process that can lead to personal growth and transformation for both the mentor and the mentee. As you guide and support young people in their faith journey, you deepen your own understanding, strengthen your convictions, and grow in your relationship with God.
• The Impact of Mentorship is Widespread: Mentoring youth in Christianity has a ripple effect. By investing in their spiritual development, you have the potential to positively impact their families, communities, and future generations. The lessons they learn and the values they embrace can shape their lives and the lives of those around them, creating a better and more Christ-like world. 

Tips for Mentorship

Let’s go over some tips to establish a smooth mentor and mentee relationship. 

• Build Trust and Rapport: Establish a trusting relationship with the young person by actively listening, showing empathy, and demonstrating genuine care and respect for their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
• Be a Positive Role Model: Lead by example and strive to embody the values and behaviors you want to instill in the young person. Model integrity, kindness, humility, and perseverance in your own life.
• Create a Safe Space for Communication: Foster an environment where the young person feels comfortable expressing themselves without fear of judgment. Encourage open and honest dialogue, and be attentive to their needs, concerns, and aspirations.
• Set Clear Goals and Expectations: Work collaboratively with the young person to establish achievable goals and expectations for their personal and spiritual growth. Regularly review progress and provide constructive feedback to help them stay on track.
• Provide Guidance and Encouragement: Offer guidance and practical advice based on your own experiences, while also empowering the young person to make their own decisions and learn from their mistakes. Embolden their strengths, acknowledge their efforts, and celebrate their achievements.
• Foster a Sense of Belonging: Help the young person find a sense of belonging within their community, whether it's through involvement in church or youth group, or other activities that align with their interests and values. Encourage them to develop healthy friendships and relationships.
• Help Develop Life Skills: Support the young person in developing essential life skills, such as communication, problem-solving, decision-making, time management, and resilience. Offer guidance and opportunities for them to practice and apply these skills in real-life situations.
• Pray and Share Spiritual Insights: Pray with the young person and share spiritual insights or guidance from a Christian perspective. Help them deepen their faith and discover how it can guide their decisions and actions.

Mentoring is a journey that requires patience, flexibility, and adaptability. Each young person is unique, so tailor your approach to their specific needs and personality. Your presence, support, and guidance can have a lasting impact on their lives.

How to Build Trust with a Mentee

Trust is foundational to a mentoring relationship, and it requires ongoing effort to maintain. Building trust takes time, so be patient, consistent, and intentional in your interactions with the young person you're mentoring.

• Act with Integrity: Maintain honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all aspects of the mentorship. Admit mistakes and take responsibility for them. Uphold your word and avoid any actions that may compromise trust.
• Be Genuine and Authentic: Show genuine care and interest in the young person. Be open and honest about yourself, sharing your own experiences, struggles, and growth in your faith journey. This authenticity helps the young person see you as a real and relatable mentor, fostering trust and connection.
• Practice Active Listening: Demonstrate genuine interest and attentiveness when the young person shares their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Show empathy, ask follow-up questions, and validate their emotions. This shows that you value their perspective and are willing to listen without judgment.
• Maintain Confidentiality: Respect the privacy and confidentiality of the young person. Assure them that what they share with you will be kept confidential unless there is a safety concern. This creates a safe space for them to feel comfortable to open up and share their challenges, doubts, thoughts, concerns, and personal experiences.
• Be Consistent and Reliable: Be consistent in your interactions and follow through on your commitments. Show up on time for meetings or activities, and be reliable in keeping your promises. This reliability helps build trust and demonstrates your dedication to the mentoring relationship.
• Provide Constructive Feedback: Offer feedback that is constructive, specific, and focused on growth. Balance praise with areas for improvement, and deliver feedback in a respectful and supportive manner.
• Mutual Goals and Expectations: Establish clear goals and expectations together, ensuring that both you and your mentee are aligned. Regularly revisit these goals to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.
• Respect Boundaries and Autonomy: Recognize and respect the boundaries and values set by the young person and their family. Avoid imposing your own beliefs or decisions on them. Encourage their independent thinking and decision-making. Be mindful of their comfort levels and personal preferences. Avoid prying into sensitive areas unless they willingly share or seek guidance on those topics.
• Maintain a Non-Judgmental Attitude: Foster an environment where the young person feels safe expressing themselves without fear of judgment. Avoid criticizing or imposing your own beliefs or values. Instead, offer love, understanding, and guidance while respecting their individuality.
• Demonstrate Support: Show unwavering support for the young person, especially during challenging times. Encourage their strengths, affirm their efforts, and celebrate their achievements. Let them know that you are there to provide guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear whenever needed.
• Harbor Patience and Understanding: Building trust takes time, especially with young people who may have experienced past disappointments or trust issues. Be patient, understanding, and empathetic toward their journey. Trust is built gradually through consistent actions and a genuine concern for their well-being.

Where to Find Someone to Mentor

Finding someone to mentor involves a thoughtful approach that focuses on identifying individuals who could benefit from your knowledge and guidance. Below are some ideas to start your search for a mentee. 

• Church or Faith-Based Organizations: Connect with your local church or faith-based organizations that have youth programs or ministries. Volunteer to get involved and express your interest in mentoring young people. Church leaders and youth pastors can often help identify potential mentees who are seeking guidance and support in their faith.
• Community Outreach: Engage in community outreach activities targeted at youth. This could include volunteering at after-school programs, mentoring organizations, or community centers. Reach out to these organizations and express your desire to mentor young individuals in their faith journey.
• Personal Connections: Utilize your personal network to find a young person who may benefit from mentoring. Talk to friends, family members, or acquaintances who have children or know of young people seeking spiritual guidance. They might be able to connect you with someone who would appreciate a mentor.
• Online Platforms: Explore online platforms and forums that cater to Christian youth. Some websites or social media groups are specifically designed for connecting mentors with young people seeking spiritual guidance. Take part in discussions, offer your support, and express your willingness to mentor.
• School or College Campuses: Contact local schools, colleges, or Christian student organizations to inquire about opportunities to mentor Christian students. Some educational institutions have mentorship programs or student clubs where you can get involved and offer guidance in matters of faith.

Examples of Mentorship in the Bible

Now, let’s take a look at some exemplary mentors in the Bible.

• Moses and Joshua: Moses served as a mentor to Joshua, preparing him to lead the Israelites after Moses' death. Moses invested in Joshua, providing guidance, encouragement, and teaching him about God's laws and ways. Joshua learned from Moses' leadership and eventually became a great leader himself, leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.
• Paul and Timothy: The Apostle Paul mentored Timothy, providing guidance in matters of faith, leadership, and ministry. Paul wrote letters to Timothy, encouraging and instructing him in his role as a young pastor.
• Elijah and Elisha: Elijah served as a mentor to Elisha, anointing him as his successor and training him to be a prophet. Elisha followed Elijah closely, learning from his example and seeking his guidance. Elijah imparted his knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual mantle to Elisha, who carried on Elijah's prophetic ministry after his ascension.
• Naomi and Ruth: Although not explicitly identified as a mentorship relationship, Naomi played a pivotal role in guiding and mentoring her daughter-in-law Ruth. Naomi provided counsel, encouraged Ruth's faithfulness, and guided her in making significant decisions that impacted her life. 
• Jesus and His disciples: Jesus served as a mentor to His disciples, teaching them about faith, love, and how to spread His message. He guided them in their spiritual growth and empowered them to continue His work.

These examples illustrate the importance of mentorship in empowering individuals to fulfill their God-given purposes, pass on wisdom, and contribute to the growth and development of others.

Conclusion

Mentorship goes beyond simply offering advice or information. It is a purposeful and ongoing relationship based on trust, respect, and mutual learning. The mentor acts as a role model, providing guidance, feedback, and encouragement to the mentee. They offer insights based on their own experiences, helping the mentee gain new perspectives, develop self-confidence, and make informed decisions.
The goal of mentoring others is to facilitate their growth, learning, and development in their faith. It is a dynamic and collaborative process that often involves regular meetings, open communication, and a commitment from both the mentor and mentee to invest time and effort in the relationship.
Ultimately, mentorship aims to empower the mentee to reach their full potential, overcome challenges, and achieve personal success, while also fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for their growth.
Remember, mentoring is a journey that requires patience, commitment, and a genuine desire to commit to the life of another person. It is an opportunity to participate in God's work of transformation and discipleship.

- Torrance Church of Christ

Celebrate Dad this Father’s Day

Father’s Day is quickly approaching! Celebrate Dad without breaking the bank with these budget-friendly ideas to honor and appreciate your Dad. From homemade gifts and heartfelt gestures to meaningful activities that emphasize quality time, there are plenty of ways to make him feel special without straining your wallet. It's about the thought and effort put into the celebration, creating a memorable and meaningful experience for your dad that he will truly cherish.

Ways to Celebrate 

Have a BBQ 
The sizzling sounds of the grill, the mouthwatering aroma of grilled delicacies, and the relaxed atmosphere create a memorable experience. It's an opportunity to gather loved ones, enjoy delicious food, and create lasting memories while showing appreciation for the special father figure in your life.

Serve Dad Breakfast in Bed
By taking the time to prepare a special meal and serving it right to him, you'll be showing your love and appreciation in a unique way. It's a chance to pamper him, allowing him to relax and start the day off feeling cherished and celebrated.

Watch Dad’s Favorite Movie as a Family
Take the opportunity to watch your dad's favorite movie and discover the reasons behind his unwavering love for it. Immerse yourself in the story that resonates with him, understanding the characters and their journeys that have touched his heart, creating a shared experience that strengthens your bond.

Make Dad His Favorite Homemade Treats
Put a smile on your dad's face by whipping up his favorite treat. By creating something that he truly loves, you're not only indulging his taste buds but also showing him that you pay attention to his preferences and care about his happiness. It's a thoughtful gesture that will make him feel loved and appreciated, creating a sweet moment that he'll cherish.

Have a Family Game Night and Play Dads' Favorite Game 
Engage in a special bonding experience by playing your dad's favorite game. Whether it's a classic board game, a thrilling video game, or a competitive sport, joining him in his preferred game demonstrates your interest in his hobbies and creates a shared moment of fun and camaraderie. It's a chance to make lasting memories, laugh together, and strengthen your connection through friendly competition and shared enjoyment.

Ask Dad About His Favorite Stories and Memories From His Childhood
Take the opportunity to delve into your dad's cherished memories from his childhood. By asking him about his favorite moments, you'll gain valuable insight into his upbringing, the experiences that shaped him, and the values he holds dear. It's a chance to deepen your understanding of him as a person, strengthen your bond, and create a meaningful conversation that shows your genuine interest in his life story.

Take Dad on a Picnic 
Enjoying the beauty of nature while sharing a meal together creates a serene and relaxing atmosphere, allowing for quality time and meaningful conversations. It's a thoughtful way to show your appreciation, creating memories that will be cherished as you bask in the warmth of the sun, savor delicious food, and enjoy each other's company.

Go for a Family Bike Ride
Make Father's Day an active and enjoyable occasion by going on a family bike ride. Exploring the outdoors together on two wheels not only promotes physical fitness but also strengthens the family bond. It's a chance to create shared memories, enjoy the fresh air, and embark on an adventure that allows you to appreciate the beauty of nature while celebrating your dad's special day.

Create a Family Time Capsule
Create a family time capsule, a treasure trove of memories and emotions. Collecting meaningful items, handwritten letters, or photographs to seal in the capsule symbolizes the passing of time and the importance of family bonds. It's a beautiful way to capture the present moment, create a lasting keepsake, and provide an opportunity for future generations to glimpse into the past, honoring your dad's legacy and the unique journey of your family.

Go for a Walk Together
Gather your family for a leisurely walk, and create an opportunity for quality time and connection. Strolling together allows for meaningful conversations, while also promoting health and well-being. It's a chance to appreciate each other's company, enjoy the surroundings, and celebrate your dad by engaging in a simple yet heartfelt activity that emphasizes togetherness.

Explore a New Place 
Embark on an adventure by exploring a new nearby place with your dad. Discovering uncharted territory together creates a sense of excitement and shared exploration, fostering a stronger bond between you. It's a chance to create lasting memories, embrace new experiences, and celebrate the spirit of adventure while making Father's Day an unforgettable occasion.

Make Father’s Day Memorable with These Free Printables

These resources provide a convenient and budget-friendly way to express your love and appreciation, allowing you to personalize your Father's Day celebration with a touch of creativity. Take advantage of these free printables and make this Father's Day truly memorable for your dad.

We have three different styles of cards to print, all complete with a scripture
Card 1
Card 2
Card 3

Print out these fun coupons for Dad to redeem! 
Father's Day Coupons

Choose from two different styles of certificates to print for Dad! 
Certificate 1
Certificate 2

Print these tags and apply them to Dad’s favorite soda for a nice and cute gift idea
Father's Day Soda Tags

Print and fill out this fun word game letter to Dad! Dad is bound to get some laughs
Father's Day Letter

Remember 

Celebrating Father's Day on a budget doesn't diminish the sentiment behind the celebration. By embracing creativity, thoughtfulness, and quality time, you can create memorable experiences and heartfelt gestures that show your dad just how much he means to you. Remember, it's the love and appreciation you express that truly make Father's Day special, regardless of the cost.

-Torrance Church of Christ

Dreamscapes of Divine Revelation: Unveiling the 21 Dreams in the Bible

There are a total of 21 dreams recorded in the Bible. Ten of these dreams are in the Book of Genesis, and only six are in the New Testament, all of which are in the Book of Matthew. Two of the dreamers in the Bible are named Joseph, one is a woman, and six are kings. Even though there are dreams and visions recorded, and they both serve similar purposes, they are not to be confused. 

Differences Between Dreams and Visions in the Bible

Some people might be confused about the difference between a vision and a dream. Visions and dreams are distinctly different, but the difference itself is quite simple. The dreams occur when the dreamer is asleep, whereas visions occur while the person is awake. The majority of visions experienced in the Bible happened while the person was praying or worshiping God. 

Purpose of Dreams in the Bible

Celestial Communication is the universal purpose of the dreams in the Bible. This communication is used by God to deliver significant messages that include:

• Revelations
• Counsel and Direction
• Word of Caution
• To Encourage and Uplift

A Quick Rundown of Each Dream

Now we will dive in and briefly review each dream in Biblical order. 

Abimelek’s Dream

Found in: Genesis 20
Summary: While they were in Egypt, Abraham had instructed Sarah to tell everyone that they were brother and sister (which is technically a half-truth, as they were half-siblings). Abraham did this because, at the time, it was customary for a man to be killed if a person of nobility wanted to take his wife for himself. If it was believed that they were siblings, the man would not be perceived as a threat, therefore, his life would be spared.  So when Abraham and Sarah temporarily relocated to the town of Gerar, they lived under the guise of being brother and sister. The king, Abimelek, was captivated by Sarah’s beauty. He took her to become his wife. God came to Abimelek in a dream and warned him that if touched Sarah and did not return her to Abraham, he and all who belonged to him would meet a swift demise. Abimelek promptly returned Sarah and provided him with sheep, cattle, slaves, money, and land in the form of an apology. God blessed Abimelek for his righteous decision by making his wives and concubines able to bear children.

Jacob’s Ladder

Found in: Genesis 28:10-22
Summary: After all of the drama went down between Esau and Jacob, Jacob fled his family home. While on the run, he stopped to rest one night, using a stone for a pillow. That night, he dreamt of a ladder reaching up toward heaven. At the top of the ladder, Jacob watched as angels scaled the steps. At the top of the ladder, Jacob saw God. God proclaimed that the covenants and blessings He promised Abraham and Isaac were promised for him too, and their descendants would inherit the Promised Land. God told Jacob that he would be with him throughout his travels and make sure that he would arrive back home safely. When Jacob awoke, he used the stone pillow and built an altar. He acknowledged and praised God and His divine promises. Jacob’s dream also reveals the connection between God and man. 

Jacob’s Return Home

Found in: Genesis 31:1-18
Summary: Jacob had been working for his father-in-law for several years. His father-in-law, Laban, had been treating Jacob unfairly. An angel of God visited Jacob in a dream. In the dream, Jacob recounted all of the abuse he had endured from Laban. God showed Jacob the ways that He has still been blessing him. God then told Jacob that it is time to go back home. When Jacob awoke, he gathered his wives and children and fled his father-in-law's house. 

Laban’s Dream

Found in: Genesis 31:22-55
Summary: Upon the discovery that his daughters and grandchildren ran away with Jacob, Laban realized that his house gods were missing. He already felt betrayed, and the discovery of his missing property sent him over the edge. Laban chased after Jacob. While on the journey, God came to Laban in a dream. God warned him to not say anything good or bad to Jacob, just allow him to go in peace. When Laban eventually caught up with Jacob, they made amends and Laban said his goodbyes to his daughters and grandchildren. 

Joseph’s Dream of Grain

Found in: Genesis 37:5-8
Summary: There was no question that Joseph was his father's favorite. Joseph’s brothers were envious and hated him. Joseph had a dream that he and his brothers were binding sheaves of grain in the field together. The sheaf that he had been holding suddenly stood upright and the sheaves his brothers held gathered around Joseph’s sheaf and bowed down. After Joseph relayed the dream to his brothers, their hatred and spite grew. 

Joseph’s Dream of Stars

Found in: Genesis 37:9-11
Summary: This dream immediately follows Joseph’s dream about the grain, and shares the same message. In this dream, Joseph tells his family that the sun, moon, and eleven stars were bowing down to him. In both dreams, God unveils His plan to restore rule to a descendant of Abraham through Joseph. 

The Cupbearer’s Dream

Found in: Genesis 40:1-15
Summary: After Joseph was sold into slavery, he was bought by one of King Pharaoh’s ministers. Joseph was falsely accused of seduction by said minister's wife and thrown into jail. While Joseph was in jail, Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker angered him, so they too, were thrown into jail. Joseph had the responsibility of looking after the two men. On the same night, both men had dreams that left them feeling concerned. Joseph asked them to explain their dreams. The cupbearer told Joseph his dream first. In his dream, the cupbearer saw a vine with three branches. As quickly as the vines began to bud, they blossomed and quickly ripened into grapes. The cupbearer realized that he was holding the Pharaoh’s cup, so he took the grapes, gave them a squeeze, and the juices emptied into his cup. He then returned the cup to Pharaoh. Joseph told the man that the three branches represented three days. Joseph continued to interpret the dream and told the man that within three days, he would be restored to his position in the house of Pharaoh. 

The Baker’s Dream

Found in: Genesis 40:16-22
Summary: Feeling hopeful after Joseph imparted good news to the cupbearer, the baker recounted his dream. In his dream, the baker had three baskets stacked on top of each other, and balancing on the top of his head. The top basket was full of baked treats for Pharaoh. Birds were flying around and eating the goodies held in the basket. Joseph informed the man that the three baskets meant three days. He continued and told the man that within three days, Pharaoh will behead him and impale his body onto a pole, leaving the birds to eat away his flesh. Three days later, it was Pharaoh’s birthday. As Joseph had foretold, the cupbearer was restored to his position, and the baker met his end. 

Pharaoh’s Dreams of Cows and Grain

Found in: Genesis 41
Summary: Two years after Joseph interpreted the dreams for the cupbearer and baker, Pharaoh awoke from a fitful slumber. In his dream, Pharaoh had been standing along the banks of the Nile. Seven plump cows rose from the river and began to graze upon the reeds. Another seven cows came up from the river and stood among the first set of cows. There was a stark difference between the cows. The first seven appeared to be healthy and well-fed, but the second group of cows was gaunt and unsightly. Suddenly, the group of menacing cows ate the healthy cows. The shock of the dream woke him up. After some time, Pharaoh was able to fall back to sleep and had a second dream. This time, there was a sturdy stalk of grain with seven heads of grain flourishing from it. Then, another seven heads of grain sprouted from the stalk, but they were feeble and scorched by the wind. The seven ailing heads hungrily swallowed up the seven fruitful heads. Pharaoh was awakened. Feeling troubled, Pharaoh called for all of the magicians and wise men in Egypt to interpret his dreams. But none were able to. The cupbearer remembered Joseph and how he accurately interpreted both his and the baker's dream. Pharaoh immediately sent for Joseph, who was still imprisoned. Pharaoh disclosed the details of the dreams to Joseph. Joseph confirmed that the two dreams held the same message. The seven healthy cows and heads of grain meant there would be seven years of abundance. Just the same, the seven unwell cows and heads of grain represented seven more years, but in contrast, it would be seven years of famine. After informing Pharaoh about the warnings in the dreams, Joseph suggested that Pharaoh make preparations for the impending famine. Pharaoh was so impressed with Joseph and knew that God was with him, so he appointed Joseph to be his second in command. When the famine hit, Egypt was prepared and was the only nation that hadn’t been devastated by it. 

The Loaf of Barley

Found in: Judges 7:1-22 
Summary: Gideon and his men were camped south of the Midian camp. God instructed Gideon to have the majority of his men return home, promising Gideon defeat if he does. Once only three hundred men were left, God was pleased and Gideon and his men continued their journey north. Gideon had his doubts, feeling uncertain knowing that the Midianites had such a large army, and he had an army of three hundred. When they were just south of the opposing camp, God told Gideon to get closer and stake out the Midianites, encouraging him to listen to what they were saying. God assured Gideon that if he were to eavesdrop, his worry would dissipate. So Gideon and his servant made their way toward the Midian camp. As they got closer, Gideon overheard a man describing a dream he had to a fellow comrade. The dream is as follows:

 “A round loaf of barley bread came tumbling into the Midianite camp. It struck the tent with such force that the tent overturned and collapsed.” -Judges 7:13

Of course, his comrade knew exactly what the dream meant. He told his friend that the dream meant that the sword of Gideon would come down on their whole camp. He knew that God was delivering them all to Gideon. Hearing this, Gideon was overjoyed. He praised God and ran back to his camp. He excitedly commanded his men to get up and go fight. God delivered on His promise, and the Midianites were vanquished. 

Solomon’s Deepest Desire

Found in: 1 Kings 3:1-15
Summary: Solomon was newly appointed king, newly married, and lived his life according to God’s law. One night, God came to him in a dream and told Solomon to ask for anything he wanted and He promised to make it happen. Solomon praised God, telling him how honored he was to have inherited the throne. But Solomon revealed his concerns. He told God that despite being grateful, he was a child and he was uncertain how to best govern the people, and discern if the decisions he will be confronted with are right or wrong. Basically, all Solomon wanted was some wisdom. God was very pleased and commended Solomon for not asking for a long life, the death of an enemy, or wealth. God promised he would grant Solomon his wish. But there was more. God promised that if Solomon followed Him as David had, God would grant him all of the things that he did not ask for, too. God kept that promise. 

Nebuchadnezzar’s Statue

Found in: Daniel 2
Summary: During his second year of reign, King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream that deeply troubled him. He called in magicians, astrologers, and enchanters to interpret the dream, but it was futile. Frustrated that no one was able to interpret his dreams, the king ordered all the wise men in the area to be put to death. So, on the king's orders, the guards searched for all the wise men in the area, including Daniel and his friends. Fearing for the lives of his friends and himself, Daniel pleaded to God for help. That night, Daniel had a vision and God revealed to him the meaning of King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream. Daniel praised God and demanded to see the king. Nebuchadnezzar doubted that Daniel was able to interpret his dream, so without telling him what the dream was, he requested that Daniel recounted the details of the dream. Daniel described what the king saw: a large statue with a head of gold, its chest and arms made of silver, the belly and thighs made of bronze, strong legs made of iron, and feet made of a mixture of iron and clay. Then a large rock was cut and crushed the statue, the hand that cut the rock was not from a man. The statue was smashed into tiny pieces, and the wind swept it all away. But the rock grew into a mountain that filled the Earth. 

Astonished by the accuracy, Nebuchadnezzar wanted to know what the dream meant. Daniel told the king that his kingdom was the head of gold, full of glory and honor. But another kingdom, one inferior (hence silver), will rise up after his reign, followed by an even lesser kingdom, one made of bronze. Then a kingdom as strong as iron will conquer, but the clay mixed with the iron indicated a kingdom divided. God will come in and destroy all of the kingdoms. God is the rock that will destroy the gold, silver, bronze, iron, and clay. And His kingdom will grow, and endure forever. The king was so impressed with Daniel, that he appointed Daniel ruler over Babylon. 

Nebuchadnezzar’s Tree

Found in: Daniel 3
Summary: King Nebuchadnezzar had another dream. In this dream, an enormous and bountiful tree stood in the middle of the land. The tree was so large that its top grazed the sky. It provided food for people and the many animals that used it for shelter. Then a messenger from Heaven appeared and ordered that the tree be cut down, the branches removed, the animals scattered, but to keep the stump bound with iron and bronze firmly planted in the grass. The messenger announced that God declares the verdict, that he lives among the animals in the wilderness, and his mind be turned to that of an animal until seven times pass by him. Nebuchadnezzar sought insight from Daniel. Daniel was perplexed as he tried to discern the message God had for Nebuchadnezzar. When Daniel finally came to a conclusion, the message was unfavorable for the king. Daniel told him that Nebuchadnezzar would be driven away from the people, left to seek refuge in the wilderness with the wild animals. It will take seven times to pass before Nebuchadnezzar to finally realize that God is sovereign over him, and all kingdoms of Earth. The stump left in the grass indicated that once Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges God for who He is, God will restore his kingdom. After Daniel relayed the message, he begged the king to repent and live righteously. A year later, his dream was manifested. But after Nebuchadnezzar accepted God as his God, his kingdom was restored and he was an even greater king. 

Daniel and the Beasts

Found in: Daniel 7 
Summary: During his first year of rulership over Babylon, Daniel had a dream. In his dream, Daniel saw a great wind coming from Heaven churning the sea. Four giant and fierce beasts rose out of the sea. The first beast appeared as a lion, but it had the wings of an eagle. Its wings were torn off and it was lifted from the ground and made to stand on two feet. The mind of a human was given to the lion beast. The second beast looked like a bear. It snarled, and Daniel noticed three ribs stuck between its teeth. A voice commanded the bear beast to get up and eat its fill of flesh. The third beast looked like a leopard, but with two sets of birdlike wings on its back, and four heads. This beast was given authority to rule. The last beast was the most terrifying of all. It had teeth made of iron and ten horns on its head, and it mercilessly crushed and devoured victims. As Daniel observed the last beast, he noticed a smaller horn emerge, and uproot the three next to it. The small horn had human-like eyes and a mouth. The horn arrogantly spoke. Suddenly, the beast was slaughtered, and its body was thrown into a magnificent fire. The other beasts were stripped of all their authority, but they were allowed to keep their lives for some time. Coming from the clouds, Daniel saw a holy presence, one akin to a son of man. This presence was given authority over all nations, and his kingdom could never be destroyed. In his dream, Daniel was scared, and he asked what it all meant. He learned that the four great beasts are four kings that will rule. Daniel asked why the fourth king was so different than the rest. He was told that this was a kingdom that will devour the earth. This king will speak against God and the righteous will be delivered into this king's hands for some time. But in the end, God’s kingdom will prevail. 

A Message for Joseph

Found in: Matthew 1:18-25
Summary: Joseph had concerns after he learned that his soon-to-be wife, Mary, was pregnant. He knew that they had not yet been intimate. Wanting to follow the law, and not smear Mary’s name, Joseph decided that he would quietly divorce her. But an angel came to Joseph in a dream and comforted Joseph, declaring that the child in Mary’s womb was the Son of Man. The angel urged Joseph to take Mary as his wife. When Joseph woke up, he did exactly that. 

A Warning for the Magi

Found in: Matthew 2:1-12
Summary: The Magi had been sent by King Herod to kill Jesus in infancy. But when the Magi arrived, they praised the baby and left gifts for the family. They had a dream warning them to not return back to Herod, so when they made their journey home, they took another route. 

A Safety Concern

Found in: Matthew 2:13-18
Summary: After the Magi left, an angel appeared to Joseph in a dream. The angel told Joseph to take Mary and Jesus to Egypt because King Herod was going to have all of the babies in the area killed. 

Mary, Joseph, and Jesus Return Home 

Found in: Matthew 2:19-23
Summary: After Herod died, once again an angel visited Joseph in a dream. The angel told Joseph to have him and his family return to the land of Israel. They departed. 

God's Warning for Safe Travels

Found in: Matthew 2:19-23
Summary: Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus were on their way back to the land of Israel, but Joseph had another dream where he had been warned to avoid Judea because Herod’s son ruled over the area. So the family settled in the district of Galilee. 

Pilate’s Wife Receives a Crucial Message 

Found in: Matthew 27:11-26
Summary: When Jesus was arrested, the people took him to the governor. The crowd was cheering and chanting for Jesus to be crucified. While on the judgment seat, Pilate must decide what to do with Jesus. Pilate did not see any crime that Jesus had committed. Mid-trial, Pilate’s wife sent him a message, urging her husband to not have anything to do with the death of Jesus. She had a dream where it was revealed to her that He was innocent. Pilate tried to get the crowd to see His innocence, but they wouldn't have it. So he washed his hands in front of the crowd, confirming that he will have nothing to do with the crucifixion of Christ. 

Dreams Today

The use of dreams or visions for divine communication in the modern world is heavily controversial and debated. Right now, we aren’t here to deliberate whether or not God still uses dreams and visions as a source of communication. But we will focus on what we do know. 

We know:

• God communicates with us through scripture and prayer
• Our purpose is to serve Him and continually dedicate ourselves to His purpose
• God wants to provide and bless us
• If we follow Him, He will provide and bless us 
• God will give us our hearts' desires

Here’s some proof:

+…for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. -Philippians 2:13
+Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed. -Proverbs 15:22
+May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. -Psalm 20:4
+Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. -Psalm 37:4
+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. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. -Jeremiah 29:11-13
+But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. -Matthew 6:33

Taking a look at what we know, it is possible that God does communicate to us today via dream, just not in the sense we first think of. Instead, God plants dreams in our hearts. Dreams that we hope come true, strive for, and make us happy. As long as we are fulfilling our end of His purpose, He will help us turn our dreams into reality. 

To End 

All the dreams recorded in the Bible, however long or short, hold great significance. The dreams were not only messages for the dreamers, but messages for each of us. Just as God supported, warned, encouraged, and helped the dreamers in the Bible, He helps us too by planting dreams in our hearts and helping us reach success. 

So, keep dreaming those dreams!

Look below if you’d like to read some motivational quotes about God and dreams today. 

-Torrance Church of Christ