Dream Interpretation and Visions

Introduction

• Pastor Touré and Sarah Hester greet and offer a word of welcome before the main message.
• Emphasize the importance of seeing and perceiving what God is doing in this season.

Base Scripture: Job 33:14-16

• "For God does speak—now one way, now another—though no one perceives it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on people as they slumber in their beds, he may speak in their ears and terrify them with warnings."

The Importance of Dreams and Visions

• A powerful way in which God speaks through dreams and visions.
• Biblical examples: Solomon, Joseph (husband of Mary), and Joseph (son of Jacob).

Example of Solomon

• God gave him wisdom in a dream, changing his life forever.

Example of Joseph (husband of Mary)

• Divine confirmation that Mary conceived by the Holy Spirit in a dream.

Example of Joseph (son of Jacob)

• Interpretation of Pharaoh's dream allowed them to prepare for a famine.

Challenges in Dream Interpretation

• The difficulty in perceiving God's voice.
• Importance of not ignoring or underestimating dreams.
• Pastor’s personal example of an apparently random dream with dolphins and water.

Tips and Advice for Dream Interpretation

• You have the gift: The Holy Spirit in you is the necessary gift.
• Stay in God’s presence: Revelation occurs in His presence.
  • Example of the angel Gabriel who always brought revelation.
• Write and make clear: Take details and ask key questions about the dreams.

Key Questions for Interpretation

• What was the emotional tone of the dream?
  • Example: Peace in a dream about something negative means it is under God's control.
• What references can you draw from the dream? (Does it have a biblical or personal reference? Example: Cows in Joseph's dream had a direct agricultural reference).
• Is it literal or symbolic?
  • Example of a dream the pastor had about the death of a family friend.
• Does it provide information or instruction?
  • Information prepares, instruction guides.
  • Example of dreaming about being a speaker in a new country.

Understanding Dreams as Conversations with God

• Every detail and emotion in a dream has its importance.
• Dreams can evolve into open visions and more.
• We must be good stewards of God's word and not rush to act without understanding correctly.

The Need for a Conducive Environment

• Create an intentional environment for God's presence before sleeping.
• Pray for God to speak in dreams.

Conclusion and Prayer

• God wants to speak to us and reveal great mysteries through dreams and visions.
• Encourage the faithful to actively receive and seek God’s voice.