“But he did not doubt or waver in unbelief concerning the promise of G-d, but he grew strong and empowered by faith, giving glory to G-d, being fully convinced that G-d had the power to do what He had promised.”

Romans 4:20-21 AMP

Have you ever been fully convinced about something, being absolutely certain something was going to happen or turn out a certain way? I have – several times. 

I was recently talking to my husband about a situation we were absolutely certain of in January 2003. Randal was 6 months old and we were absolutely certain about something we believed G-d spoke to us. It was one of those moments of complete agreement. There was ZERO doubt. We were convinced that G-d had the power to do what He promised.  

In our situation, we’ve yet to see the fulfillment of what G-d spoke to our hearts – yet, our conviction remains firm. Does that mean we “missed G-d” or misunderstood Him? I don’t think so. 

As I’ve thought about our situation over the past few weeks, I’ve come to understand that G-d has always been after the position of my heart – not the outcome of the promise. Yes, He is still able. Yes, He still has the power. I might not SEE it with my eyes, but that does not mean He is incapable. 

Abraham waited 25 years to see G-d fulfill His promise. Joseph waited 13 years. Moses waited 25 years. David waited 15 years. Jesus waited 30 years.  As Nicky Gumbel says,  if G-d is making you wait, you are in good company. 

The waiting – the delay – is not the point of the journey. The point of the journey is our trust. Do we believe Him? Really believe? Can we hold onto our belief in Him inspire of how we “feel”? That’s what He’s after – unwavering, uncompromising faith in Him. When we reach that level of belief, we find a hope that is unwavering.  If you find yourself like me, in a season of waiting, may we be encouraged today to  “…glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Romans 5:3-5 NKJV

It’s an interesting progression if you think about it – hope is produced by persevering through tribulations. The way to hope is through struggle and difficulty. That’s a pretty radical thought! 

Hold onto your conviction and onto the hope within. He’s still writing your story and mine – and, He’s just getting to the good part. 

Father – thank You for Your grace and truth. Help me to trust You in the waiting. You are good and You keep doing good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.

Daily Reading: Romans 4-7

December 8, 2022