Going Through Hard TimesSample

The Waiting Room

We’ve all heard people use the phrase “in the meantime” while they’re waiting for something. When we’re in the waiting room, the “meantime,” waiting for our healing or our miracle, it’s often pretty mean, isn’t it? 

So, what do we do in the meantime? How do we keep our faith and trust that God is working when we can’t see it? Here are some suggestions for us while we wait in our struggle:

Praise Him In Your Pain
One of the most important things we can do in our pain is worship God. He’s worthy of it every day. When we think of all He’s done for us and the eternity we’ll spend with Him, how can we not? Focus on God’s attributes—He’s infinite, unchanging, all-powerful, perfect, merciful, gracious and He's everywhere all the time. We give God glory and praise before we get out of the trial or receive the outcome we desire.

Keep Lifting
In the midst of this pain, you may only see weakness on your part, not the spiritual muscles you’re growing or how strong you’re getting. But with each repetition of prayer, worship, reading God’s Word, and trusting His promises, your spirit is strengthening. It’s in our weakness that His strength is made perfect. Many say that trials make or break us. Trust that yours are making you.

Pour Out Your Heart
All of the pain you’re carrying doesn’t scare God. He can absolutely handle your questions, fears, and even your anger. Just keep coming to Him. Trials can make us cling to Christ or flee from Christ. Cling to Him. You may not grasp why this hardship is still present in your life. This is where you put into practice the truth you’ve learned when things weren’t tough. It’s a daily surrender and trust.

Keep Eternity In Mind
We must keep our eyes focused on eternity. When we focus on what is seen, we’re focusing on the temporary. It’s the unseen, the way God is working behind the scenes, that is eternal. God is accomplishing something in us, through us, for us, and yes, even with us. Let’s choose to exhibit patience as we see His perfect timeline come to pass.  

As you endure your waiting room season, don’t be afraid to glance back and look at your progress. Because you’ve made some. And then, keep taking the next step. You never know when you’re going to wake up and see a break in your spiritual low-lying clouds. The day you think you can walk no further may be the day of your breakthrough. 

Reflect

• If you’re in the waiting room in your life, ask God to show you something He’s doing in and through you each day. 
• From today’s Bible reading, which verse or passage resonates with you the most? Write your thoughts.