August greetings friends! I am in a season rich with reflection and anticipation. This time of year, with its natural transitions, is a beautiful mirror of the divine rhythm of God. Sisters, our Lord is never late, never early, but always precisely on time.
This summer, I had the incredible opportunity to visit the Creation Museum and Noah’s Ark. Amazing experiences and highly recommended. Choosing to immerse myself in profound themes of water, obedience, and God’s sovereign hand has been a gift.
While on my adventures, in a small shop, I chose to purchase a petite necklace with the word “grace” inscribed in it. I need a constant reminder to create spaces of grace in my life. This simple piece of jewelry has become a powerful symbol of my journey, reminding me to balance kindness with firm boundaries. For myself, with God, and in relationship with others. I appreciate Leslie and Susan’s’ blog topics these last few weeks!!
Just as Noah faithfully built the Ark, trusting in God’s guidance amidst the criticisms, rolled eyes, and rising waters, I too have experienced unexpected challenges and difficult conversations on my journey. Each glance at my necklace affirms the delicate balance of showing undeserved kindness without enabling bad behavior.
Witnessing the grandeur of the Ark, a testament to unwavering faith and obedience, reminds me that even when our plans falter or fail, God’s hand is ever-present, guiding us with passion, purpose, and love.
Whether standing in awe of creation at the museums or facing the trials of daily life, I am aware that God’s hand weaves together a tapestry of purpose and grace. My understanding falls short, for sure. Yet, I will choose to find peace, knowing that His timing is always perfect.
Today’s Question:
I heard a term on a Facebook Live you all did recently about “trusting the process” There are so many areas in my life where I struggle with this. Can you help me understand this concept biblically? How can I find peace and trust in God’s timing when my plans and schedules don’t go as expected?
LeAnne’s Response:
Dear Reader,
Thank you for reaching out! The concept of “trusting the process” is challenging to embrace, especially when life doesn’t go as planned. It is a choice we make.
Perhaps, “trusting the process” means having faith that God is actively working in your life, even when things seem chaotic or unclear. Believing that every moment, twist, and turn is part of God’s greater plan for you. For His glory and for your growth.
Proverbs 3:5-6 provides a foundation for this idea: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This verse encourages us to rely on God’s wisdom rather than our own and trust that He is guiding our steps.
Ecclesiastes 3:1, reminds us, “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Every phase of our lives, including times of waiting and uncertainty, has its place in God’s perfect timeline.
Finding Peace in God’s Timing
Finding peace in God’s timing involves shifting our perspective and embracing a few key concepts. There are different ways we can view time:
Time as a Gift: View each moment as a precious gift from God. Psalm 118:24 encourages us, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” By focusing on the present and appreciating it, we can find joy, peace, and contentment.
Time as an investment: Consider how you’re investing your time. Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Invest your time in meaningful activities that align with your values.
Time as Flow: Sometimes, it’s best to go with the flow and trust that God is directing your path. Proverbs 16:9 says, “In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Trust that God is guiding you, even when the path seems uncertain.
Practical Steps to Trust the Process
Shift Your Mindset: Accept that it’s okay not to have all the answers. Consider the story of Joseph, whose journey from the pit to the palace was filled with unexpected turns. Despite the hardships, God’s plan was always at work (Genesis 50:20).
Stay Grounded in Faith: Make time for prayer and scripture. These practices help you stay connected to God’s promises and provide comfort during uncertain times. Jesus often withdrew to pray, highlighting the importance of staying spiritually nourished (Luke 5:16).
Reflect on the Past: Think about times when things didn’t go as planned but eventually worked out. Reflecting on these experiences can strengthen your trust in God’s process. The Israelites’ journey through the desert is a powerful reminder of God’s provision and guidance (Exodus 13:21-22).
Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community. Sharing your journey with others can encourage and remind you of God’s faithfulness. The early church in Acts is a beautiful example of believers supporting one another (Acts 2:42-47).
If you need more support, Join us for a free training on August 15th. “I’m Not Okay When You’re Not Okay”: Defining my problem, your problem, and our problem.” You can save your spot at https://leslievernick.com/joinwebinar
Practicing gratitude: Shift your focus from what you lack to the abundance of blessings in your life, fostering contentment and trust. I challenge you to journal three things each day for which you are thankful. Make notes as well of prayers lifted, answered, and unanswered. Keep this journal for a week or two and become aware of the promise of peace that surpasses all understanding.
Philippians 4:6-7 advises us to turn our worries over to God through prayer, with the assurance that His peace will guard our hearts and minds: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Trusting the process and finding peace in God’s timing is a journey we will be on for a lifetime. I see you, hear you, and feel your heart, friend. I look forward to continuing this conversation.
Have you ever felt like time was against you, where no matter how hard you tried, things just didn’t seem to fall into place? How did you navigate that season, and what helped you find peace and balance? Share your stories and insights in the comments below—I can’t wait to read about your journeys!
