You have a blank check. If you know how to spend it, you can write it.

Ever think big? It’s not easy. It forces you to sift through your values and vision.

Here’s a healthy challenge for you. What outrageous request will you make of God this year? Not five percent growth or funding for the summer trip. Think history-altering.

One of my friends was recently gliding through Galatians. Familiar terrain, breezing along. Then he stumbled on 1:23-24.

They only heard the report: “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” And they praised God because of me.

He read this three times in a row. “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” Wow. Who persecutes us these days? Think about it. Not just bad press — but persecution. Who can you think of?

Militant Islam. Talk to anyone who travels in Asia, Africa, or the Middle East, and you’ll hear tales not for the squeamish. Even closer to home . . .

What would make a bigger impression on The World than every Muslim turning to Christ? Picture Islamic zeal unleashed for God in the power of the Holy Spirit. And think of how their zeal for Christ would stir up Jews and Christians alike. Think of the glory accruing to God from such a tectonic shift.

This became our friend’s outrageous prayer request for the year.

What’s yours?