In this broken and sinful world, Jesus warns us that we will have troubles and tribulations.
But He doesn’t stop there – He promises to give us a peace that surpasses all understanding, showing us time and time again that He is faithful, even when times get tough.
Of course, one of the hardest things for us humans to do (especially those of us who like things to move quickly) is to wait and trust.
We live in a culture that trains us to seek immediate gratification.
We’re used to fast food, fast fashion, feeding the flesh, and getting what we want when we want it.
But as Christians, we must remember – God’s ways are not our ways. And His ways are always better.
While intellectually we may know this, it can be hard to live out this truth when we are suffering or waiting on God to answer a prayer.
And the enemy loves to attack Christians when we’re most vulnerable and will often spew lies like “God doesn’t really care” or “God has abandoned you.”
But nothing could be further from the truth.
In fact, some of the deepest intimacy with our Lord comes when we are in the “waiting period” and we remember we aren’t the one in control – He is. And this often brings us to our knees in humility.
We might think we know what’s best for our lives, but our fragile minds haven’t got a clue.
Thankfully, our Heavenly Father is in control and His divine plan will always prevail.
And while it’s often easy to praise God when our prayers are answered, we must also praise Him in the waiting, trusting He WILL answer our prayer – although, perhaps not in the way we think He should, but always in the way that is best.
One of the most beautiful examples of a faithful servant trusting God in the dark times is King David.
All throughout the Bible, King David is seen crying out to God – lamenting in fervent prayer.
While David doesn’t hide how he’s feeling, a common theme occurs – he knows who God is and praises His holy name.
He doesn’t question if God will come through – because he knows that God will.
Desiring God reported:
“No matter where David looks, comfort eludes him. Above, a wall of clouds hides God’s face (Psalm 13:1). Within, cares and sorrows swirl (Psalm 13:2).
Around, enemies threaten the tottering king (Psalm 13:2). Four times in two verses, David repeats his question: “How long? . . . How long? . . . How long? . . . How long?”
Yet even here, faith has not forsaken him. For all the misery wrapped up in David’s question, he knows that God’s intervention is a matter not of if, but of when — not of “Will you?” but of “How long?” His is no cry of despair thrown up into a godless sky, but rather the song of distressed trust.”
May we all in our darkest moments remember God is working everything out for our good, even if we can’t see it yet.
And may our faith become stronger as we praise Him in the waiting.
(h/t Christian Life Daily)