Endure the Season Before You: God's timing is never late

For quite a while now, I’ve been searching for a part-time job — one that would not only fit within my physical limitations but also stay within the income restrictions tied to my disability. That may not sound too difficult at first, but when you begin looking at what’s actually out there, the reality sets in fast: most positions are either too many hours, too physically demanding, or they pay just enough to jeopardize the help I depend on. That limitation adds a layer of pressure most people don’t think about. It’s not that I don't want to work — it's that I can’t afford to say yes to the wrong thing.

And I’ll be honest — that weighed on me. I’d scroll through job listings and come away discouraged more often than not. There was always something that disqualified the option. Either it required me to be on my feet too much, or it exceeded the monthly earning limit that could throw everything else off balance. The world will tell you “there’s always something out there if you just keep looking.” But what happens when all the somethings just don’t fit?

I felt all of it — the frustration, the discouragement, the weariness — but I knew those emotions couldn’t be allowed to take the lead. They were real, yes, but faith had to guide me, not feelings.

Then one day, I came across the testimony of a woman who’d been in a very similar place. She had gone through training, had the skills, and had applied to jobs — but nothing was working out. Her frustration eventually boiled over. She told God, “I’m tired. I’ve done everything I can. If there’s something for me, You bring it to me.” That prayer hit me hard. I knew exactly what that weariness felt like. You pray, and you try, and you keep trying — but there’s a different kind of surrender when you finally say, “Lord, You do it.”

At the time I heard her story, I had already backed away from job hunting. I was tired too. Every lead I found felt like another closed door. But her story planted something in me — a quiet reminder that God sees us, even when we feel hidden in the shuffle of online applications and missed chances.

And wouldn’t you know it? A couple of months later, I got a message from extended family members who were looking for someone to help with part-time administrative tasks. The hours? Perfect. The pay? Right in line. The physical demands? Totally manageable. I didn’t go looking for it — it came to me.

You can call it coincidence if you want, but I know better. God heard me when I stopped striving and simply surrendered. He heard her too, and I believe He’s still in the business of showing up right on time — especially when we’re too tired to look anymore.

God Sees What We Don’t

Sometimes we become so focused on what we think is supposed to happen that we miss what God is actually doing. I thought I needed to keep hunting, keep applying, and keep striving — but none of it brought peace. And in hindsight, I can see now that the Lord was protecting me from walking through the wrong doors. I wasn’t being delayed — I was being preserved. That job opening through family didn’t just meet my needs; it fit like a key into a lock I didn’t even know was waiting.

"And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left." Isaiah 30:21

It’s easy to get frustrated when things don’t go our way. But sometimes, God's “no” is just as much of a blessing as His “yes.” His ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are far above our own.

He Has the Final Say

This journey has reminded me that I am not the final authority on my destiny — and neither are the job listings, rejection emails, or quiet waiting seasons. God is. And He can do more in one moment of divine alignment than I can do in a year of effort.

We often think we know what's best, or at least what makes the most sense. But if we are unwilling to change or accept what God allows, we may miss out on something He meant to use to bless us — or even refine us.

"O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps." Jeremiah 10:23

Bearing the Weight With Purpose

There’s a promise I cling to — one that has brought me comfort again and again:

"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." 1 Corinthians 10:13

When the waiting got heavy and the discouragement set in, I reminded myself that if God allowed this weight, then He also built me to carry it — or better yet, to carry me through it. And not just for my own growth, but so that I can be a light to someone else still sitting in the dark.

Be the Light

Even when it’s hard, even when it doesn’t make sense, we are called to walk in love — even toward people who don’t deserve it. Because, truthfully, none of us deserved the love God gave us. And yet He still gave it.

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

That kind of love changes people. It changed me. And when I find myself frustrated or impatient, I try to remember — someone out there is waiting to see God's love through me. I don’t want to miss that moment just because my emotions got in the way.

He Meant It for Good

Every trial has a purpose. Every delay has a reason. And every disappointment has the potential to birth something beautiful, if we let God use it. I don’t know what would’ve happened if I hadn’t heard that woman’s testimony, or if I had kept trying to force doors open instead of resting and trusting God. But I’m so thankful I didn’t miss what He had for me — because it was exactly what I needed.

"But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive." Genesis 50:20

Trusting His Timing, Loving Through the Waiting

You may not be looking for a job right now. Maybe you're dealing with something entirely different — a health struggle, a strained relationship, a decision you can’t seem to make, or just that quiet ache of waiting for something to change. But the truths I’ve come to realize in this season aren’t just about employment — they are God’s truths, and they apply no matter the situation.

There is always something to be learned when we’re walking through the in-between. It may not look like growth at the time. In fact, it may feel like you're stuck or unseen. But if you’re the one who is spiritually awake — if you’re seeking Him — you'll begin to see what He means. You’ll catch glimpses of His purpose behind the pain, His direction behind the delays, and His mercy behind the “no.”

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31

No, He never promised that life would be easy. It's not all “unicorns and roses,” as I like to say. But He did promise to be with us — every step, every stumble, every tear.

"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."  Isaiah 41:10

And while you’re waiting, while you're growing — love. Even when it’s hard. Even when it’s undeserved. Especially then. Because at one point, we were the hard ones to love — and still, God looked at us and called us worthy of mercy.

"Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins." 1 John 4:10

Don’t waste the season you’re in. Don’t run from the hard places or ignore the growth God is trying to bring about in you. Let it change you. Let it soften you. Let it deepen your faith. Because He’s still writing your story — and the next chapter might just be the one you’ve been praying for.

Endure the Season Before You

Whatever challenge lies before you right now — no matter how heavy, confusing, or exhausting it feels — you are not alone in it. This may be your stretching season, your refining season, or the season that finally shifts the story. Endure it with grace. Endure it with faith. The Lord hasn’t forgotten you, and He won’t waste your pain. Keep trusting, even when you don’t understand. Keep loving, even when it’s hard. Because your endurance is not in vain.

"But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." James 1:4

Some of you might be thinking I’m a little crazy for believing that God orchestrated the whole affair. But I beg to differ. God is all-knowing, all-powerful, and above all —  I don’t believe in accidents. Not when it comes to a God who numbers the hairs on our heads and bottles every tear we cry.

Even when life doesn’t make sense and the road ahead is rough, He is still working behind the scenes. What feels like delay or detour may be a divine setup for something far greater — not just for you, but for someone else whose life will be touched because you endured.

There’s a benefit, even in the suffering. And when you know that God is in control, you can keep going — not because it's easy, but because it's worth it.

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

What’s a time when God used your waiting or pain for something greater than you expected?

 Be encouraged. 🧡

Spring Longing: finding beauty in the in-between

A Season of Reflection

There’s something about springtime—the warm sun, blooming flowers, and the world seemingly coming back to life—that stirs reflection. It awakens both hope and longing. For me, spring has brought a fresh wave of contemplation. Not just about nature and renewal, but about where I stand in the midst of it all.

Lately, I’ve been thinking deeply about what I can do, what I want to do, and where those things don’t always align. That space in-between has been teaching me something powerful. And I want to share it—not because I have it all figured out, but because I believe there’s something here that might encourage you, too.

The Tension Between Desire and Ability

As the weather warms, more people head outdoors—hiking trails, planning adventures, living life fully in the fresh air. I love being outside. I want to go out there with them. But for me, the idea of hiking or exploring uneven terrain is more than a casual challenge—it’s a real obstacle.

Simple things like gravel, slopes, or unpredictable paths can be difficult. Even walking longer distances requires someone beside me, offering physical support and stability. Without someone by my side—literally holding onto my arm—it's risky, even if my heart is 100% in it. And as much as I want to say yes to every opportunity, sometimes I know that joining in would become a burden—not only for me but for those who care for me.

So I find myself torn: desiring connection, adventure, and participation, but also recognizing my limitations and the very real consequences of overextending myself. I find myself in this strange in-between space—grateful not to be in situations that overwhelm or endanger me, but still grieving a bit of the freedom others might take for granted.

Please don’t misunderstand—I don’t share this to make anyone feel guilty or obligated. I simply want to encourage awareness, gratitude, and compassion for the blessings we sometimes take for granted.

Choosing Gratitude in the “No”

There’s a strange sort of grace in learning to say no. Not out of defeat or self-pity, but from a place of wisdom and trust. I’ve come to understand that missing out on certain things doesn’t mean missing out on everything.

Sometimes, no is a gift.

Because saying no to something that isn’t right for me opens up the chance to say yes to something else—something that is life-giving, healing, and within reach.

I’ve realized that just because I can’t scale a mountain trail doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy the sunshine on my front steps, or the quiet rustle of trees on a walk around the yard. My journey has made me more aware—more intentional about the small, sacred moments that others might rush past.

Don’t Squander What You Have

If I could share one piece of encouragement from this place of reflection, it would be this: don’t squander the opportunities you have.

Maybe you can take long walks without a second thought. Maybe you can hop in the car, run errands, clean your home, or climb a hill. I know those things might not feel like opportunities—but they are.

They're gifts.

Life isn’t always about the big mountaintop moments. It’s about the everyday—brushing your teeth without help, walking through the grocery store, getting the mail, cooking dinner. These are not small things. They are everyday miracles.

A Kingdom Perspective: The Power of Stewardship

Scripture reminds us to be faithful stewards of what we’ve been given—not just in finances or talents, but in life itself.

"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;" Colossians 3:23

That means our walking, our breathing, our showing up every day—it all matters. It’s not wasted when it’s done in love and offered to God. Whether we’re able to run marathons or simply lift our hands in praise from a chair, our effort and our faithfulness count in the Kingdom.

"His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord." Matthew 25:23

This verse always reminds me that it’s not about the quantity of what we can do, but the quality of how we do it—with faithfulness, gratitude, and trust.

The Grace to Grow Where You Are

I’ve also learned that growth doesn’t always look like it does on social media or in the lives of others. Sometimes growth is painfully slow. Sometimes it’s invisible to others. But God sees every step we take—literally and spiritually.

"He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength." Isaiah 40:29

I’m learning to celebrate progress, even if it’s just walking across the yard by myself on a good day. I’m learning to see grace in what once felt like limitation. And I’m realizing that even when I can't go far physically, I can go deep spiritually. That’s a kind of journey, too.

Encouragement for the Able: Walk With Awareness

If you’re reading this and you’re able to move freely, let me encourage you to walk with awareness. Be mindful of the blessings in your body, your routine, and your freedom. Not from guilt, but from a heart full of gratitude.

Walk for those who can’t.
Run with joy.
Sit outside and soak in the sunshine for someone who may not be able to.

And if you have the chance, help someone else enjoy those things, too. Be the hand they can hold, the steady support, the encouraging voice.

The Power of Testimony: Beautifully Broken

Recently, I was invited to share my story and testimony with a group of women. I felt honored to be asked. Anytime I get to speak, I like to share pictures from my journey—photos that show the reality of what I’ve endured, but also the grace that carried me through. I talk about the injuries I sustained, the physical, emotional, and financial hurdles I faced, and how God helped me overcome each one, one step at a time.

Each time I share, the beginning is familiar—an honest reflection of the pain and the process—but the ending? That part changes. I try to tailor the conclusion to the hearts of the people I’m speaking with.

This time, they gave me the theme “Beautifully Broken.” And I could not have imagined a more perfect phrase.

It’s taken me a long time to see beauty in my life again. For so long, all I could see was what was lost, what was broken, what hurt. But I’ve come to realize that God doesn’t just rebuild us—He restores us. And not just back to what we were, but to something stronger, deeper, more beautiful.

Like the song says, it’s through the breaking that we can be made new. That’s how the Master Potter works—He reshapes us with purpose and care. And when God puts us back together, He doesn’t just fix us—He makes us beautifully whole.

"But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold." Job 23:10

Closing Thoughts: Let Spring Stir Gratitude

So yes, spring is stirring something in me. It’s stirring longing, but also a deeper sense of gratitude—for what I can do, for what I’ve overcome, and for what I’m still learning. It’s reminding me that every season has purpose, even if the path is harder than I expected.

If you’re in a season of tension, of in-between, of wrestling with what you can’t do—know you’re not alone. You’re seen, you’re loved, and you have a purpose right where you are.

And if you're in a season of ease, take a moment to thank God for the simple things. Don’t miss the beauty of the everyday. Walk humbly, love deeply, and enjoy the path beneath your feet—even the gravel.

As spring breathes new life into the world around me, I’m learning that beauty isn’t just at the mountaintop — it’s right here, growing quietly in the in-between spaces.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the journey—every step, every scar, every moment I thought I wouldn’t make it. Thank You for the strength You gave me when I had none left. Thank You for reminding me that brokenness is not the end but the beginning of something beautiful when it’s placed in Your hands. Help me to continue walking in grace, not with shame, but with confidence in the story You are writing through my life. And for every person reading these words, I ask You to open their eyes to the gifts right in front of them—big or small. Let them see that ordinary days are full of extraordinary blessings. In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Let’s remind each other that the little things aren’t little at all. What’s one simple joy you’re thanking God for this week?

Be encouraged. 🧡