Sometimes we calculate closeness based on feelings. But feelings are not reliable indicators of God’s presence. The Word is. God said He would never leave you nor forsake you, and He meant it. He said when you go through deep waters, He will be with you.
One of the major markers that a due season is approaching is restlessness. Another is the sudden increase of options and distractions. These moments invite you to pay attention to what is near. I have learned that when I begin to feel restless in my spirit, it is often because my due season is close.
To expect from God, you must first know that there is provision for what you are asking for in His Word. There is Scripture for it. Find that Scripture and place it before you as you pray. Expectation is anchored in promise, not emotion. When God has spoken concerning a matter, you have permission to expect Him to act.
God did not say you should not ask for help. But when you do, your trust must be in Him. People can change their minds. Emergencies can arise. Capacity can fail. And when your hope is in man, your heart becomes vulnerable to disappointment.
But when your hope is in God, the end will be good.
‘ The Lord does not delay and is not tardy or slow about what He
How can that be? You might ask. How can God’s thoughts be good when I am in suffering? How can His plans be for my good when I am in this uncomfortable season? Where is good in this? You may encounter situations that may trigger these questions. But trusting God’s plan, even when it is bitter, is always better than trusting a lie.
Beloved, when a word comes to you, test it against Scripture. Does it match what God has already said? People can call you with a prophecy, and it can sound spiritual, emotional, even convincing, and still be a lie.
Hananiah was not judged for hoping. He was judged for lying in God’s Name. God’s Name carries weight. He does not lack integrity. If He did not say it, do not put His Name behind it.
Sometimes God allows instantaneous miracles that bypass process. But He does not always work that way. Many times, He is more interested in what He is building inside of you than how fast you get the result.
Far be it from God that a Word He has spoken concerning you will go unfulfilled. He adjusts circumstances. He shifts things. He moves what needs to be moved and removes what needs to be removed. Not because He is controlling, but because He is faithful.