When Our Faith Is Tested Again and Again
You’ve noticed something different about yourself. Previously, when you faced obstacles, you’d give up. Now, you persevere and see the project or trial through …
… even when it feels as if you’ve been “waiting on God” forever.
Is it because, after years of lukewarm quiet times, you’ve become serious about growing in your relationship with your heavenly Father?
If this doesn’t describe you, and reading these words evokes a sense of envy that spills over into regret and wishful thinking, please keep reading.
Psalm 1:3 (AMPC) tells us,
And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity].
Years ago, while meditating on this verse, I realized I wasn’t in a healthy spiritual place. I often withered when a battle became difficult or when it seemed like God was taking too long to answer my prayers. The only aspect of my life that showed any signs of maturity was my aging body. (Sigh.)
Something changed as I started praying this verse. I could almost see my future self becoming the kind of person Psalm 1:3 describes: a solidly planted Christian who isn’t easily distracted from whatever God calls him or her to do.
One who doesn’t become discouraged or cop out when they face uncomfortable or prolonged trials.
The longer I prayed, the more my assurance grew. To this day, I continue to plant my roots. I’m determined never to stray from God’s presence. I need His Spirit to teach, guide and recharge me. I depend on Him to mold and shape me so I will be ready to serve Him throughout my day, in every circumstance.
This includes: respecting my husband, Bert, blessing my boss and clients, serving my church and community and representing the God I serve through my writing.
Are you losing steam as you wait on God to bring the work of your hands (and dreams) to fruition?
If you desire to grow sound roots that will yield a good outcome, dwell in (and rest on) God’s Word. His Holy Spirit will keep you strong and steadfast, even when you’re losing steam. As we yield ourselves to Him, our heavenly Father will prosper and mature our labor – including endeavors we’ve yet to experience …
… right on time, in its season.
What about you?
I’d love to hear your thoughts about this post. (Your comment might also benefit others.)
- Are you losing steam while waiting on God to bring the work of your hands (and dreams) to fruition?
- How can we pray for you?
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Most meaningful accomplishments result from persistence, it’s true. Prayer can be a means of rededication. But there are situations in life when persistence is folly because the objective simply cannot be reached, and acceptance of this fact can bring peace of mind. But it can be difficult to recognize these situations. Spiritual guidance can resolve this dilemma.
Wisely said, Arthur.
Welcome back to Today Can Be Different!
Are you losing steam while waiting on God to bring the work of your hands (and dreams) to fruition?
We’ve all been there.
How can we pray for you?
Sheryl this is a good question. I know i am walking closer to God in my waiting over different circumstances going on in my family life. Rather it be seeing how God is walking in my husband Lance and my life personally or in our adult prodigals livesI know he is working even if we do not see the end results. I am thankful for his renewed strength and support each day. Just to know he is walking by my side are carrying me through each situation.
Amen!! Well said – and well lived, dear friend.
I believe one of the hardest spiritual lessons to learn is waiting on God, but I’ve also been taught that lunging ahead only causes trouble. We need to wait on the Lord’s perfect timing in all situations, because our Father knows best! “ But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him. / He is like a tree planted by the waters that sends out its roots toward the stream. It does not fear when the heat comes, and its leaves are always green. It does not worry in a year of drought, nor does it cease to produce fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8. Thanks Sheryl!
Amen, Kim! “Lunging ahead” often causes trouble!!
And I love how scripture supports scripture like with Jeremiah 17:7-8 and Psalm 1!
You write this so beautifully, Sheryl! Your Scripture from Psalm 1:3 reminded me of Isaiah 12 and the song, “Therefore with joy shall I draw water out of the springs of salvation…”!
Thank you, Carlos!! You always leave such encouraging comments.
I appreciate you.