by Nancy Ellis
Does anyone else enjoy waiting to board a plane, or for the doctor to call you in?
I know I don’t.
I know that I should use the time to prepare, observe, learn or rest but instead, I worry and lose patience.
2 Peter 3:9, NIV tells us “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”
And then again very simply put in Psalm 27:14 NLT, “Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.”
It is easier said than done.
Why is looking through the rear view mirror easier than looking through the windshield of life?
Personally, when I look back on the tests in my life, I think how much easier life would have been if Jesus had revealed my testimony in that test, how He could use what He did in me to help someone else. At least then, I would feel there would have been a purpose in the hard time. Here is the thing, God will always use the hard times in your life for good to grow you and to help others! You can find hope in that. You won’t see it in the moment, but you will see it in the long run. While you wait, trust Jesus. Wait for Him to reveal your testimony.
Recently I was speaking with a friend who was feeling betrayed by her husband who was struggling with drug abuse. She mentioned that the hard part is not forgiveness or overcoming betrayal but waiting. Waiting to stay or leave. Waiting to move on or dwell. Waiting for God to reveal what should be learned from this hard time. The anticipation and longing for a season of steadiness and joy is overwhelming.
I remember suffering from post-partum depression after having my children. What a dark and lonely place that was. I was so frustrated that I felt like I had “lost my self”.
In hindsight, I’m so grateful to have gone through that so I can speak from a place of experience to encourage other women and moms who are feeling lost.
My empathy and testimony is a gift from God that brings true meaning to my life now.
What difficult time are you in the midst of now?
Pray this with me today:
Dear Lord,
Thank you for always being with me – especially in this difficult time. I know you have a plan for this situation and for my life. I ask for patience as you reveal that purpose in your perfect timing. I can’t wait to hear the testimony you will give me and I am thankful to be a vessel that will help others in a similar situation.
In Jesus name, I pray.
Amen.
Nancy Ellis is a wife, mom of two little ones, a successful businesswoman and leads a Small Group for Moms here at Cape Christian. Her passion to lead in love in every area of life is contagious as she helps women of all ages to embrace God’s love for them. She is transparent, real and one of the most encouraging women I know.