Where there is no faith in the future, there is no power in the present.

This quote couldn't be any truer of my life. I have always been a person with plans for the future, even before I was serious in my walk with God. However, before finding my future in Christ I was always changing plans. One day I wanted to go into international real estate, the next it was to start a business. The cause of my inconsistency came from a deeper rooted problem. It was lack of faith in the calling on my life. I had no power in the present because my faith in the future was seriously lacking.I thank God that He saved me and that He has given me a future. Today, I know that I have power through Christ in my present because I have faith in the future that He has for me. I want to share the 4 main points that helped me get to the understanding that I have today;1. Give up all hope for a better past.In order to properly focus on your future, you must first stop trying to make a better past. Give up. Look forward and press on toward the life and future that you want. Believe that you will achieve the dreams and goals you have inside, regardless of what is behind you. Forget and forgive your past. Press on forward toward the goal.2. Be positive in all situations.The trials and difficulties you go through on the journey are helping you to get where you need to be. Do not let it weaken your faith. The bible makes it clear that we will face trials and difficult times. Instead of losing positivity, press on. Give thanks to God in all circumstances because you are being molded for your future. The difficulties will test faith, and the testing of your faith produces perseverance.3. Have a clear vision for where you are going.No one ever has their vision completely mapped out before starting. It will change along the way. Most of us do not get a fully mapped out plan from God when we start working toward our vision. The one thing we all have from the start is that we know where we want to end up. If you really don't know what your vision for your life is; I can help set you on the right track. Jesus tells us what our life focus should be in Matthew 28:

• Make disciples of all nations.
• Baptizing new brothers and sisters in the faith.
• Teaching them how to live and grow in the examples Jesus set for us in the bible.

That is the vision for all of our lives. Where it changes for each of us is in what way we accomplish it. You may ask, "How do I know what way?" ...Just start; start doing these things. Imagine yourself as an athlete; you aren't sure what sport to play. You don't just sit around and think about it, you start playing sports, and eventually, you realize you are passionate about one, or your skill level really sticks out. Treat your vision for your life the same way.4. Weigh your vision against the word of God.This final point is one that I do not see enough of in the body of Christ. If you have a vision, and you are realizing that you have power and influence in the present. Always be evaluating your direction. Make sure that it lines up with the word of God. Make sure that you aren't moving into more of what you want to do. Always make sure that you are walking in God's will. Make sure that you faith is in God, not in yourself.1 Thessalonians 5:16-18Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.Jeremiah 29:11For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.Proverbs 16:9The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.Matthew 28:19-20Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.