In the last week of October, I went on my first solo trip to Finland. Why Finland? What did I go for? Was I not scared? This article aims to answer these questions; also get you to see how you can write down the vision and work with it.
Some time ago, I wrote an article about Complacency and subsequently, How to avoid complacency. My trip to Finland was very much a big step out of my comfort zone.
At the start of the year, MoneyAfrica, a financial community I subscribe to, held a session on creating a vision board for the year. Although I’d written down my goals for the year, the facilitator encouraged the participants to find pictures and create a screensaver that they’ll see everyday.
One of the items on my vision board was to see the Northern lights. After surfing the internet, I found countries where the lights show and ultimately chose Finland.
Why should you write the vision
Through Habakkuk 2:2-3, you and I see how God tells the Prophet Habakkuk to write the vision and make it plain. This way, whoever reads it runs with it.
Then the Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry.
When I turn on my phone, the first thing I see is my vision board. This way, using my phone reminds me of the goal.
The Bible says that God gives us what to desire in Philippians 2:13. My desire to see the Northern lights weren’t inspired by me. What did I even know about them before this year? Not so much!
For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.
Philippians 2:13 NLT
What are the takeaways from this side?
To sum the Finland trip up, it was a beautiful experience. The major lesson learnt is dependence on God. Why? I knew nobody, had no solid itinerary and trusted the Holy Spirit for guidance each step of the way.
The first time I saw the Northern lights, I was in awe of God’s creative power. The only thing that would come out of my mouth is the Hymn “Oh Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, consider all the works thy Hands have made”.
You know prior to going to Finland, I spent time praying for favour. Before getting there and upon arrival, organizers of the experiences I’d booked were so nice, I began to get worried. In my mind, people are nice until they’re not. Better not to indulge them (May God help me).
When God gives you a desire, He will work with you to achieve it. Disclaimer: you also have to do some work. I spent months saving for the trip because God put this desire in my heart.
On the fun side, here are some facts about Finland as seen: The amount of snow is a lot if you go up north. Reindeers are quite common in Finland; they’re even eaten. Cost of living is expensive (who knew?).
That’s all for this article. I truly had a lovely time in Rovaniemi, Finland and learnt some key lessons. May God fulfil the deepest desires He puts in our hearts.
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