Trust Him In The Waiting
Our morning routine typically consists of Steve taking the dogs (Harry Potter, a mini Dachshund, and Levi, a Maltese) outside and feeding them while I get ready for work. However, a few weeks ago we reversed roles and I had the chance to tend to our doggies.
As I let them outside, I remembered Steve telling me how they scarf down their food in the morning and that we needed to try to slow them down. When I let them back in, they rushed to the kitchen to eat. All eyes were on me as I picked up the bowls and filled them with kibble… I decided to add some water and let the food sit for a few minutes to soften.
Well, let me tell you… as soon as they realized I left the bowls on the counter, the wailing began. You would have thought they hadn’t eaten in days, they were jumping up and down and screaming like it was the end of the world! I called them to go back to the bedroom with me but there weren’t having it. I went to get dressed and allow the water time to absorb into the food. A few minutes later, Levi came back to get me. So, I followed him to the kitchen to retrieve “the precious!”
That morning, God revealed my tendency to overreact and not trust Him when things change or don’t go my way. Just like Harry & Levi could not see their bowls and the water that was being added, often we cannot see the work our Holy Father is performing on our behalf.
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. (Hebrews 11:1)
God does not make mistakes; He is intentional and has a purpose for everything. Unfortunately, we live in a fallen world where things happen that are not God’s will. However, no matter what happens or why it happens, God can redeem it and use it for His glory!
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)
Softening the food took some time. It was a process that lead to my desired outcome: slower eating. Similarly, God has desires for your life and they take time to accomplish. The Lord will lead you through seasons of pruning so that you will continue to grow and look more like Jesus. When you feel the pressure, remember that the testing of your faith makes you stronger. Believe me, this is something I have to remind myself of daily. When you’re in the midst of a battle or facing a huge obstacle, remember that your God is Bigger!!
Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit. (John 15:2)
The next time something does go the way you planned, take a breath and ask God to reveal the truth about your situation. Trust that He is faithful and will always guide you.
Here are some practical ways you can increase your Trust and Faith:
- Journal — write down your prayers and thoughts
- Worship — take time to get alone and praise God
- Prayer — get real with God, have a conversation
- Read The Word — First5 & You Version are great resources
All of these steps have helped me connect with God. Just like the memorial stones taken from the middle of the Jordan river, my journal is a testament to all the times I have seen God working in my life. Many times I use praise and worship to conquer my fear or change my perspective. Prayer is a powerful tool that is often over looked. It doesn’t have to be a formal conversation, you just need to share what’s on your heart. In my experience, breakthrough usually comes after sincere prayer and praise. Reading The Word is one of the primary ways God speaks to us. I enjoy using the First5 app as a morning devotional and the You Version app for longer reading/study time. There are so many resources available that make reading the Bible easy… do some research and find one that works for you. I encourage you to look back on the faithfulness of God in your life and take the time to earnestly seek Him. Choosing trust and faith will change your life. Our Abba Father is mighty to save and abounding with everlasting love for you!
