What I Learn, While I Wait! (from one of my quiet times this week...)
Some prayers are answered quickly, but often God allows waiting so he can refine and shape me in the process. Just like silver and gold are purified by fire until the metalsmith sees his reflection, God uses seasons of testing to burn away impurities and develop my character so he can see his likeness in me. Delays in answered prayer are not denials; they are opportunities to learn persistence, grow in faith, and be prepared for the blessing that follows the testing. When I continue to pray faithfully, God promises to answer in his time and way.
Bottom Line:
God often delays answers to prayer because He’s refining and preparing me through the process—testing my faith, purifying my heart, and shaping me to reflect Him more fully. The blessing comes after the testing.
This means that I need to lean into persistence by staying consistent in prayer, even when I don’t see immediate answers. At the same time, I need to learn to journal what God is revealing about my character, strengths, and areas of growth during the “waiting season.” This will give me both insight to use in my interactions with others and a deeper reservoir of experiences to encourage others who feel stuck in their own waiting.