Gratitude In The Waiting

My first advice to engaged couples as they begin the wedding planning process is to hire a wedding planner. The demands and stress of wedding planning is no joke! However, between juggling vendors, my to-do-list, graduating law school, finding the perfect dresses and managing a bridal team I learned a few lessons. It’s quite amazing how being grateful will genuinely condition you to have a positive perspective and prepare you to receive God’s promises.

Few months to my wedding, I was on a heightened search for an event decorator. Finding the right vendor for my reception venue decor was a tough row to hoe. Again, I scheduled a consultation with a vendor who came highly recommended. As vividly as I can recall, it was a Sunday afternoon after church service, marriage counseling and a long drive back home, soon it was time for the consultation. About five minutes into the call, I was convinced this vendor wasn’t as experienced as I thought she was…and I wasn’t willing to risk it.

I’m not sure whether it was the gloomy weather or the disappointment of my failed potential vendor, but I just lay down likely thinking “here we go again”. A gentle voice urged me to be positive. I shrugged off the thought and then turned to my long wedding to-do-list. It was obvious I had made significant progress though I had experienced several roadblocks along the way. Then it hit me…I was being ungrateful…seemingly forgetting “how good God had been” and even for the opportunity to plan a wedding 😅.

From then, I was intentional about thanking God even for the things that didn’t go as I wished because while difficult to understand sometimes, I knew it was all working out for my good. “And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.” Romans‬ 8‬:28‬ AMP‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

If we trust God with our lives, we should have utmost confidence to “thank Him in all seasons” as we are encouraged to in 1 Thessalonians 5:18. A common reason why we naturally may not be in a constant space of thanksgiving is because we are experiencing trouble or waiting on God for one thing or another. But God already cautioned us ““I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]” John‬ 16‬:33‬ AMP‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus. Ephesians 5:20

Our attitude reflects our perception. Perception is powerful. An attitude of gratitude shifts our perspective and allows us to receive God’s blessings and promises. Are you tired of waiting for God to connect you with your spouse? Be grateful that you are alive and well. Only the living can desire and encourage the possibility of a marital relationship! Are you waiting on a promotion? Express your gratitude to God for your job and the gift of hope! Are you trusting God for healing? Trusting God with your academics, finances, family and more? Waiting may be stressful and tiring, but God’s blessings and promises are worth waiting for. I challenge you to stand firm in God’s promises, pray and express gratitude in the waiting.

Psalm 103:2 – Bless the Lord, O my soul, forget not all His Benefits

Prayer

Lord, I praise you! I will bless you at all times.
I bless you for protecting, guiding and delivering me throughout this year
Your Word promises me that all who put their trust
in God are blessed (Psalm 2:12) and God will not forsake those who seek Him and
put their trust in Him (Psalm 9:10) Trusting in God means I am not fearful or
confused about my future because it’s all in His Hands.
Even as I wait, I pray that my heart will always be filled with gratitude
because I will not forget your benefits.
In my waiting, I receive special grace to be strengthened and
aligned in my heart and thoughts with your will for my life.
You are my reliable and trustworthy source of help. Thank you for the
confidence of knowing you’re working behind the scenes for me.
Because I trust in you, your praise will continually be in my mouth for
victory in                            (Insert what you’re trusting God for).
In Jesus’ name. Amen.