As I stare into the woods with a blank gaze, I feel hope drain from my heart. Illusive hope, appearing just out of reach, blocked by circumstances. My dreams are becoming faint images, no longer recognizable. Are You schooling me in hope, Lord?
“There is purpose in your suffering.” the Lord said, sitting down next to me. “Be confident that your faith will produce a substance, proving your expectation of Me. Allow your suffering to fertilize the buried seeds of faith, putting your flesh to death, and quickening your spirit.”
My raw thoughts revealed themselves before I could stop my tongue. “I don’t see any seeds. Just dust.”
Jesus put his arm around me, pulling me close, fully understanding the tender state of my heart. “Patiently wait for what you cannot see: because no one hopes for what they can already see.”
Pausing, giving me time to ponder His Words, Jesus continued. “Suffering confirms your spiritual knowledge and power and thoroughly completes the work I am doing in you. It will cause you to resolutely turn in My direction, producing a substructure that will support your foundation and join us perfectly together.”
The thought of being perfectly joined to my Lord, made my heart skip a beat. I felt a glimmer within my soul. Resting my head on His shoulder, I tried to soak up all His love and compassion for what might lie ahead. Feeling a little anxious, I asked, “How long should I expect to be in this state, Lord?”
“You will suffer a little while.” Jesus explained. “Hope in Me, for I am your portion. You will abound in Hope as I fill you with joy and peace. At the appointed time, I will lift you above the suffering and bring you restoration. Humble yourself and trust Me. I am your Messiah. I will deliver you from this trial and exalt you in due time.”
Jesus turned to face me: I lost myself in His eyes.
“I am the Anchor of your soul. Wait patiently and bend to My redemptive time.”
Comforted by Hebrews 6:19; 11:1; Lamentations 3:24; Romans 8:24-25; 15:13; 1 Peter 3:18; 5:6-10; Philippians 1:29
