Have FaithSample

Day 3: Wait, I Say, On The Lord

Waiting is one of the most challenging tests of our faith. When prayers appear to remain unanswered for weeks, months, or even years, it’s easy to become weak and waver in unbelief. But faith is more than believing while situations are convenient and require little patience or effort—FAITH is the determination to continue believing no matter how long it takes or what the circumstances look like. Nevertheless, it is during these times, when we don’t see that the hand of God is still working on our behalf, that the doubts begin to rush in like a sailboat being capsized by a raging sea.

Still, the most amazing news is that doubt does not disqualify us from increasing our faith; it’s actually the perfect opportunity for us to connect with our merciful and loving God. The man in Mark 9:24 made a profound statement. He said, Lord, I believe; but in the next breath, he exclaimed, Help my unbelief. WOW!!! This man is definitely not alone because I can identify with this statement. Can you? Even accomplished men and women of God have struggled with doubt; I would venture to say that it might be a prerequisite to developing GREAT FAITH. So, don’t you dare feel discouraged if you are battling with maintaining or increasing your faith. Follow the exact path that this man did; he ADMITTED his struggle. But, instead of allowing doubt to separate him from Jesus, he laid it all at The Master’s feet. And that, my friends, is the key!

Doubt is an inevitable part of this journey of faith; so, when we experience it, it should make us run to God and not back away from Him. Why? Because He is the only one who can truly help us. Friends sometimes fail us. Family members grow weary of hearing our troubles. Social media is messy. Motivation is fleeting. What we actually need to build and strengthen our faith is found in His Word. The promises of God are the antidote to doubt. Our Heavenly Father loves us, and He desires to bless us. God is not ignoring our prayers, but He is shaping us for what lies ahead. While we are waiting, He teaches us patience, trust, and total dependence on Him. Instead of seeing our delays as punishment, we must begin to view them as preparation.

Sarah, who was past childbearing years, struggled to believe God would take away the shame of her barrenness and produce fruit from her dead womb. But God did what He promised and made her a mother in her old age. While Gideon was hiding from the Midianites, the Lord called him to save Israel, but he doubted what God was able to do through him so much that he asked for a sign on three different occasions. Yet, God still used a reluctant man to become a mighty warrior and give Israel the victory. Both this man and this woman were listed among the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11.

When doubt arises, recognize that you possess the cure. You already have what you need to remedy the issue. Don’t focus on what you see in the natural. Don’t worry about how long it’s been. Don’t believe the lie that this is as good as it’s going to get. Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and HE SHALL STRENGTHEN THINE HEART, wait I say on the Lord (Psalm 27:14). Feed your doubts and fears the promises of God and watch your mind, body, and spirit be strengthened! —AND LIKE THOSE HEROS OF FAITH YOUR CHANGE WILL COME!!

Reflection:

• What is something for which you are waiting on God?

• How can you use this waiting period to grow closer to Him?

• What doubts have been holding you back in your faith?

• How will you replace doubt with God’s promises?

Prayer:

Lord, I lay all of my doubts at your feet. Help me to hold onto Your promises and trust in Your faithfulness. Give me the tenacity to wait patiently for Your timing. Help me to continue believing that You are working on my behalf, even when I do not see Your movements. Amen.

Action Step:

Find a verse that speaks to an area of doubt in your life. Write it down and declare it over yourself throughout the day.