It's *funny* how there are certain times when I'm struggling with a particular issue or have a certain decision to make, and in the midst of those times I read an article or hear a radio program or song that speaks exactly to my situation. Of course, it's not coincidence; it's God at work, reminding me that He DOES know what I'm dealing with and crying out to Him about.
Today was another one of those days where God must have known that I needed some reassurance, because He gave me not one but TWO messages along the theme of handling life when nothing seems to be happening. The following is a devotional written by Elisabeth Elliott that I read this afternoon. I also want to share a transcript from a broadcast that I heard on the radio when I woke up this morning; because of its length, I'll just give you the link here and you can check it out for yourself.
I hope that these thoughts encourage you as much as they have me.
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No Evidence of Progress
By Elisabeth Elliot
Taken From: A Lamp For My Feet
At times nothing seems to be happening. So it must be for the bird that sits on her nest. Things are apparently at a standstill. But the bird sits quietly, knowing that in the stillness something vital is going on, and in the proper time it will be shown. It takes faith and patience for the bird, and such faith and patience never seem to waver, day after day, night after night, as she bides the appointed time.
Restless and doubtful we wonder why we have nothing to show for our efforts, no visible evidence of progress. Let us remember the perfect egg--unchanged in its appearance from the day it is laid. But while the bird waits faithfully, doing the only thing she is required to do throughout those silent weeks, important things are taking place.
I wait for the Lord. My soul waits, and in His word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord more than watchmen for the morning. --(Ps 130:5, 6 RSV)
Copyright 2006, Elisabeth Elliot
July
3 days ago
3 comments:
See, he leads me to your blog because he knows I need the same lesson.....thanks!
I had the same thing happen to me today. I was sharing a "waiting" struggle with another Christian sister just two days ago. Since then, God has sent me multiple emails and your blog to remind me that I do not wait in vain! Thank you for sharing. I'm glad to know that we can sit on our eggs together!
This post reminded me of Elisabeth's recounting of her husband's martyrdom: Through Gates of Splendour. It is a great book, also!
Neal
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