Tired? Hang in there: Embracing Hope and Trusting in God's Making Process.
I am God's Masterpiece, created to display the glory of God, and so are you. We are made in his image, formed in his likeness and equipped with gifts and resources for his purpose. Each person you see walking around the surface of this earth is a part of that purpose, a unique piece designed by an expert craftsman. Each is uniquely chiselled, hammered and hewed for a reason. And it's not the reason we sometimes think it may be - it's a purpose aligned to his will.
In the bible story of Jeremiah, reading through chapter 18, God tells Jeremiah to go on a little field trip to a Potter's house and observe this craftsman at work. Jeremiah watches as this craftsman presses, rolls, moulds, breaks and transforms this clay lump into something beautiful, something uniquely made for use.
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11(NIV)
Similarly, God is using every brokenness, marring, raw experience that life throws at us to shape and mould us for his specific purpose, like the clay in the hands of the potter.
We are being made for use by an expert craftsman, a brilliant strategist, and a sovereign God with a great plan.
Somewhere, we all know this truth at the back of our minds, yet while life happens, it hurts. So, while you wait and endure the making process, I'd like to share a few tips that have been and are still helping me through my process.
I hope it helps you. I'd love to see who you become when you reach the other side.
Trust God's Process
Trust starts with truly knowing someone, so when everything else falls and fails, go back to the basics of the character of God you know. Look back on your life and see how he has revealed himself to you. As Jehovah Jireh, Nissi, Shalom? Lean into that and let those expressions of God's personas become the dominant thought that fights back when words of fear fill your mind.
One thing I do is remember a specific situation from my past and how God came through for me; when I start to fear, I replay that scenario in my mind and remind myself that he will come through for me again, just like he did that time.
Embrace God's Process
It's all about reframing the situation from "THIS IS WHAT IT IS!" to "This is what it is."
Yes, take it down two notches. Remind yourself that, like every other situation you’ve been through, this, too, shall pass. It's an experience to go through and not stay in. Your setback is temporary; your comeback is certain only if you remain rooted in faith and hope in Christ, knowing that the master craftsman is at work.
Despite the current uncertainties, trust that everything will align according to his plan. God's timing is perfect, and your turnaround date is set. It's all happening according to plan; stay strong and endure the process. It's timed and will all fall into place at the right time.
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 (NIV)
Hope in God's Plan
Keep your hope alive; your best is yet to come. Life only makes sense when viewed holistically and something in retrospect. Read Isaiah 46:10 and keep it handy to remind yourself that your life is part of God's good plan.
"I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.'" (NIV)
So, to practice trusting in God's plan, I’ve got a simple assignment for you and, frankly, me too- four simple tasks to help us all keep our hope alive:
- Make time to talk to God in prayer and listen to his instructions. "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know." Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV)
- Be patient; good things take time. Don't let the lives of others frazzle you, all in good time; stay calm. "We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised." Hebrews 6:12 (NIV)
- Look around you and find outlets for service to God and humanity. Serving others takes your mind off your situation and gives you a sense of purpose. "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:21 (NIV)
- Finally, whatever you do, don't give up. Dig in your heels and hang in there; the tide will turn, and it always does. "Return to your fortress, you prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you" Zechariah 9:12 (NIV)
Exactly what I needed today. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThanks for reading 📚
DeleteFaith nuggets! Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI pray these nuggets continues to grow and strengthen your faith.
DeleteThank you Seye for these reminders and and guidelines. May the lord continue to fill you up. May the lord answer all your prayers quickly 🙏🏼
ReplyDeleteAmen 🙏 and for you too.
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