In Others’ Words: Future Trust
Sometimes things just take time.
I know today’s quote by theologian Henri Nouwen talks about “the fruits of [our] labors,” and yes, there are times when our efforts don’t pay off right away. Months, maybe. Even years. You’re a fine, upstanding employee … but the promotion doesn’t happen. You do all the right “writerly” things — attend conferences, rewrite manuscripts, pay attention to feedback from mentors — but you don’t land a contract. Or you do land a contract and your book gets published … but sales are not everything you’d dreamed of.
I’ve experienced that kind of delayed results. Unrealized hopes.
But when I read today’s quote, what I thought of was laboring in prayer. Interceding for someone — even for yourself — and not getting an answer. Not a yes. Or a no. Just seeing the situation, whatever it is, continue. And so, you continue to pray because, well, we’re told to pray without ceasing. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) And isn’t it funny how that verse is snugged right up next to the one that says “give thanks in all circumstances”? We’re told to let our requests be made know to God. (Philippians 4:6). And it’s interesting that this verse is preceded by the reminder to “be anxious for nothing” and that our requests are to be given with a thankful attitude.
When I’m praying and I’m not seeing results, I have to remember that God is working even when I don’t see anything changing. If nothing else, he’s working in my heart to trust him still. To trust him more. And he’s working in the situation … in the lives of the people I’m praying for. That, too, is something I have to trust. Prayer doesn’t make things happen the way I want to, when I want to. But prayer does pull me away from worrying and focus my heart back on the God who is always, always trustworthy.
In Your Words: What helps you stay the course when you’re not seeing longed-for results? And how can I pray for you today?
In Others’ Words: Future Trust http://ctt.ec/L7Acy+ #InOthersWords #quote #prayer @bethvogt
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“…Trust, even when you don’t see the results.” #InOthersWords #HenriNouwen #prayer @bethvogt
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