Prayer and Proverbs - Day 3 of 31

Read Proverbs 3.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. ” (Proverbs 3:5 ESV)

Things are not always as they seem. We think a door is closed and in truth it is not. We fail to see the big picture.

Sometimes we dream of something, something God-focused, and the dream does not come to fruition...in our timing. Sometimes we need to wait on God's timing. Sometimes the answer is, “Yes, but not now.” This can be frustrating especially in our culture which seeks immediate gratification. We don't like to wait.

Jesus, when sharing the parable of the four soils, stated, “As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.” (Luke 8:15 ESV)

Patience is key to trusting in the Lord. Practicing patience encapsulates the whole notion of not leaning on our own understanding. Patience tells us to not focus on what may or may not be happening around us, but to look forward to that which we hope in the Lord.

A few years ago I dreamed of a new ministry start. It was completely Jesus-mission-focused. But only now is it showing legs. God's answer, years back, was, “Yes...but not now.” As I reflect, I can see the wisdom in God's plan and timing. I pray that I will continue to trust in the Lord, even in the other trials and challenges I am facing and will experience of which I do not understand.

How about you? How is God asking you to trust in Him? How is God asking you to be patient?