Grief Bites: Finding Treasure In HardshipsSample

In times of waiting on God, we eventually find out a harsh truth: We think we are waiting on God because we greatly want Him to change our circumstances...but...we quickly find out that waiting on God is not only to change our situation ---but God will use times of waiting on Him to change us.

He cares far more about our character, obedience, and trust in Him than He cares about our comfort or quickly granting our requests.

Like a child begging through tears to get their way, a wise parent will use those times to train and mold the child's character first. Oftentimes, God does the same with us.

Pastor Craig Groeschel once told a story about one of his children. His child was zip lining in a backyard and smashed against an object upon landing. Craig had to take his child to the ER and the doctor had Craig hold his child down so the child could receive the best treatment. The child looked bewildered and hurt because it appeared as though Craig was allowing his child to be hurt...but what was actually happening was Craig was having to do what was in the child's best interest so his child could be helped and ultimately healed.

Think about that...in times where we painfully cry out, "God...where are you??" as we look up hurt and bewildered, wrongfully believing God is allowing us great hurt, harm, and devastation, God may be in the middle of holding us down for our own wellbeing.

It is VITAL for us to be still and know that He is God.
It is of the upmost importance to wait on Him.
He knows what is best and He sees the greater overall picture.
Allow Him to work out your situation in His way and His timing.

While you are waiting, delight yourself in Him. Obey Him. Love Him. Be loyal to Him.

He IS good and He IS faithful!
He is not wanting you to hurt...He is wanting to help you.
You are not being punished...He may be simply refining and purifying you at the present moment.
Allow Him to completely refine your life in the time you are waiting for your trials to pass.