7 Signs Your Dream Is From God – And What to Do About It

Have you ever asked yourself, “Is this dream in my heart from God, or just my own desire?” Discerning the source of your vision is critical, because God-given dreams have eternal impact – not just for you, but for others.

Based on the life of Joseph in Genesis, and echoed throughout Scripture, here are 7 indicators your dream may be God-ordained, and how to respond with faith and action.

1. It Captures Your Imagination and Inspires You Daily

Genesis 37:5 says, “Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers, they hated him even more.” The Hebrew root of “had a dream” means to be firmly bound to it. Joseph didn’t just have a dream—the dream had him. When God plants a dream in you, it becomes a fire in your bones. It fuels your days and gives you reason to endure trials.

2. Others May Not Be as Excited About It as You Are

Joseph’s brothers couldn’t understand the dream. Not everyone will celebrate your calling—especially those closest to you. Be wise with whom you share your vision. Surround yourself with people of faith who won’t laugh at what God put in your heart.

3. You Encounter Resistance, Setbacks, and Frustration

Ecclesiastes 5:3 says, “A dream comes through much effort.” A true God-dream attracts opposition. The enemy always targets potential. If your dream involves helping others, restoring families, or advancing God’s Kingdom, expect resistance—but don’t quit. The greatest battles often precede breakthrough.

4. It Feels Impossible, But You Can’t Let Go of It

Even in the prison, Joseph refused to give up. When he was falsely accused and forgotten, God was still preparing him. Genesis 39:21 says, “The Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love.” When quitting feels easiest, that’s often a sign the enemy has fired his best shot—and you’re closer to breakthrough than you realize.

5. You Can’t Fulfill It Alone

Pharaoh told Joseph in Genesis 41:15, “I’ve heard you can interpret dreams,” and Joseph responded, “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh an answer.” God-sized dreams require God’s Spirit. They humble us, stretch us, and force us to rely on heaven’s help.

6. It Defines You and Shapes Your Life

Joseph’s life was marked by dreams—from his youth to his leadership in Egypt. Purpose, passion, and potential are often connected. What are you passionate about? What do you do naturally well? These are often clues to your God-given assignment.

7. It Grows Larger the More You Think About It

Proverbs 23:7 says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” God-dreams don’t fade with time—they expand. Like Joseph, who waited over a decade to see his dream fulfilled, your assignment may take years. But if you guard and nurture it, God will bring it to pass.

Take Action in Faith

A dream not acted on remains only a dream. Just like the friends who broke through a roof to bring a paralytic to Jesus in Luke 5, faith must move. When Jesus saw their faith, the miracle happened. Your dream matters. Protect it, prepare for it, and pursue it—because God wants to use it to bless others, and glorify Himself.