Sometimes we find ourselves in situations where we have done all that we can do. We have executed our faith, we have put in the work, we have fulfilled all the tasks, but it did not happen, YET!
I call this the JUST TRUST GOD stage. During the ‘JTG’ stage, we find ourselves wondering what if I had done things differently? Or should I have tried at all? At times we even find ourselves asking “What’s the point?”. The ‘JTG’ stage even makes us think about giving up. The emotional toll that comes along with the ‘JTG’ stage can be overwhelming and discouraging.
For practical purposes, I associate the ‘JTG’ stage with baking a cake. (Strictly for comparison).
1) Choose the cake to bake = Pick a Goal.
2) Believe we can bake it. = Faith
3) Locate the recipe. = Seek the Word of God for instructions on ‘how to’.
4) Mix the ingredients. = Put the Work in.
5) Place it in the oven. = Wait on God to bring it to pass.
At that point, the heat makes the cake rise and become what it is intended to be. It does not `little longer than the recipe suggested. Just like our plans, it could take a little longer than expected to reach our goal but if we stay in the oven, we will rise to do and be what we intended. Just as it reads in Psalm 104:27-28, ‘They all wait for You, to give them their food in due season. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things.’
While we are in the ‘JTG’ stage of our plan, wait on God and he will allow it when it is time. A test while a cake is in the oven is to press on the cake gently with index finger and if the cake pops back into place, it is almost done. Do not get discouraged or jump out of the oven too soon.
So, when God pokes us and we pop up with anticipation and excitement about our baked good, we know it is almost time. Be patient during our ‘JTG’ stage. Our cake will be done in God’s perfect and intentional time. Let us get ready for our poke!
Suggested Verses:
Proverbs 23:18
Surely there is a future, and your hope will not be cut off.
Psalm 39:7
“And now, Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in You.
And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Be Encouraged!!
I like the analogy of baking a cake and poking.😊 Sometimes when we don't wait for God's poke, we tend to do the poking ourselves and then live to regret it. If we "JTG", He will work it all out for our good.