Have you ever wanted something so badly and had to wait a long time for it? If not, you are blessed, dear friend. If so, you are in good company. And it seems like an eternity goes by while we are waiting, doesn’t it?
Years ago, I worked as a counselor in public school, community mental health and church settings. I left full-time work when I had my first son and my mom took ill. The plan was for me to return to work in public school at a later date so that I could work around my children’s schedule while still bringing in an income.
Well, the plan didn’t quite go the way we wanted it to or thought it should. It has been 14 years since I left full-time work and much has happened in that time, but certainly not the way we had mapped it out. Some years ago, the Lord gave me an opportunity to use my people gifts in another way—as a professional life coach. During that time, he also directed me to earn my ministry credentials. Both of those things I did. I know that I know that I know (that means I am absolutely certain!) that there’s a way this is all supposed to work together, I just don’t see it clearly yet (Can I get an “Amen!”).
So what do I do while I wait? I continue doing “my part,” as I call it, and leave the rest up to Him. What’s my part, you ask? My part is continuing to work with my coaching clients, which I absolutely love! There is not much more fulfilling than helping others create lives they enjoy living. It’s continuing to network with others to get my name “out there,” wherever that is. It’s continuing to speak at conferences, retreats and workshops, to share the message God has given me for them.
It’s also continuing to trust that it will, indeed, work out. And not according to my plan either, but according to God’s plan. For I know him well enough to know that my ways are not always his ways and that his plans for me are far better than I could ever ask or imagine. He loves me dearly and wants the best for me—and for everyone I partner with along this road of life.
I was encouraged last week when I came across this verse in one of my devotionals:
But these things I plan won't happen right away. Slowly, steadily, surely, the right time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. If it seems slow, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed. (Habakkuk 2:3 NLT)
Reminds me that God’s timing is never too early, never too late, but always perfect. And that when he gives us a vision, he also brings it to life. I don’t know about you, but I sure need to be reminded of that from time to time. What are you waiting for? What vision do you have your eyes and heart on? Don’t give up! Keep going—the reality of it could be right around the corner!