Our Daily Bread: Character-Driven LeadershipEsimerkki

Reclaiming Our Time

I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten. . . . You will have plenty to eat, until you are full. -Joel 2:25–26

My mother shared with me how she chose not to attend college so she could marry my father in the 1960s, but she always held on to her dream of becoming a home economics teacher. Three children later, though she never received a college degree, she did become a nutritionist aide for the state of Louisiana’s health system.

She cooked meals to demonstrate healthier meal choices—much like a home economics teacher. As she shared her dream with me after recounting the events of her life, she proclaimed that God had indeed heard her prayers and given her the desires of her heart.

Life can be like that for us. Our plans point one way while reality goes another way. But with God, our time and lives can be turned into beautiful displays of His compassion, love, and restoration.

God told the people of Judah (JOEL 2:21) that He would “repay” them for their lost or destroyed years—brought about by a “locust swarm” (V. 25). He also works to help us in the challenges and unfulfilled dreams we face as leaders and in all of life. For we serve a Redeemer God who honors and rewards our sacrifices for Him (MATTHEW 19:29).

Whether we’re facing a devastating challenge or a time of unrealized dreams, may we call out to the God who restores and give Him praise.

KATARA PATTON

What are you waiting for God to restore or redeem? How would you describe your attitude as you wait?

Mighty God, thank You for Your promises of redemption and restoration. Help me to trust in Your timing as a leader and in each area of my life.