During a Bible study, my teacher cautioned the class about praying for patience. “Since God answers our prayers, but not always in the way we expect,” she said, “He might place us in a situation that tries our patience in order to teach us a lesson.”
Over the years I’ve found that advice to be truth. God has tested my patience so many times I’ve lost count. He loves me, I know. He wants the best for me, I know. But in His own perfect time. Not mine.
And here I am—waiting… with patience dancing from shoulder to shoulder taunting me. I’m gulping down my frustration and presenting a shiny happy face. When someone asks when my book will be published, I answer “Soon. Keep checking my social media for an announcement.”
The pandemic has wreaked havoc on the publishing industry. It has canceled writing conferences, disrupted supply chains, and infected key professionals and their families. My ace project manager at Redemption Press, Carrie Stevenson, caught COVID-19 earlier this year and is still battling it. Hats off to her as she’s working from home, covering her accounts as well as the ones of her colleague who lost a family member to the virus a few weeks ago. I’m in awe of her fortitude and love for Jesus. A month ago, when I slumped into a funk over the shifting publishing process, she prayed for me during our phone conversation. Afterward, I felt such peace.
Today I’m remembering her prayer and repeating scripture about patience. I hope to receive a hard print proof very soon. Redemption Press had scheduled the order information for The Demons Among Us to be posted on Amazon and Barnes & Noble September 30, but it’s now looking more like October 8. I know one week won’t make a lot of difference. And I also know that God has a reason for this delay. I trust him.
If you’re in need of patience, here are the Bible verses I’m using today:
- You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised. Hebrews 10:36
- “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
- Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:4
Please post your favorite Bible verses about patience and trust in the comments section below. I’d love to add them to my list.