Do's and Don'ts for a Biblically Consistent View of Dreams

DO:

· DO test dreams that claim to be prophetic. If a dream carries a directive, a theological claim, or a prophecy for yourself or others, apply the test of 1 John 4:1. Does it align with the revealed character and Word of God (Isaiah 8:20)? Does it point to Jesus Christ?

· DO consider natural causes first. The Bible acknowledges that stress, anxiety, and daily activities (Eccl. 5:3, Jer. 23:25-26) can produce dreams. Before seeking a supernatural interpretation, prayerfully consider if the dream reflects your own thoughts, fears, or experiences.

· DO seek God for wisdom. James 1:5 encourages us to ask God for wisdom, which He gives generously. If a dream is persistent or troubling, pray for discernment to understand its source and any potential meaning or action required.

· DO focus on God's written Word. The Bible is God's primary and clearest revelation to us. Treat it as the ultimate authority over any subjective dream, vision, or impression (2 Peter 1:19-21).

DON'T:

· DON'T assume every dream is a spiritual message. This can lead to confusion, superstition, and giving undue authority to subjective experiences. Most dreams are likely a natural processing of our memories and emotions.

· DON'T use Jeremiah 23:25-26 as a proof-text for common dreams. Remember this passage is a warning about false prophecy, not an explanation for your own subconscious. Misusing it can lead to an unhealthy suspicion of one's own mind.

· DON'T elevate dreams to the level of Scripture. No dream, regardless of its source, can add to or contradict the Bible. Any dream that does is false and should be rejected.

· DON'T feel pressured to interpret every dream. It is not a sign of spiritual immaturity to forget a dream or not understand it. Our peace and security are found in Christ, not in deciphering every nocturnal thought.