What Now?
“The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.”
-Lamentations 3:25-26 (NIV)
Basketball has brought me so much in my life, and I have such a passion for the game. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through it is one that I learned during my college career. I learned that my love and passion for the game does not come from my own ability but from the love that Jesus has for me. It is the gift He’s given me that brings out joy when I compete on the court.
When it came time to choose a career, I knew that I wanted to teach the game of basketball and develop athletes not only as players but as people. So, what profession do you think I went into after graduation? The wonderful world of collegiate coaching, of course!
One of the major battles I fought came after my two years as a graduate assistant were over. All I could do was start applying for jobs and wait. It was one of those instances in life where it was easier said than done. The Bible said that we are to “Rejoice always, pray continuously, and give thanks in all circumstances for that is God’s will for us in Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NIV).
As time went on, I felt myself beginning to worry about my circumstance instead of how I could show the light of Christ through my circumstance. But, what I discovered was that the Lord has an uncanny ability to show Himself in times of adversity. He does His best work in our weak moments if we are faithful and seek Him. During our trials, we must simply remember to be quiet and sit still.
Through my job search, many people asked where my peace came from. It was truly a gift from God, and it was a great reminder that, as Christians, we may not know what our future holds but we know Who holds our future. Our peace of mind can and should come from that.
I am happy to say that, in His time, God brought me into a position that is greater than I can ever imagine. And the best part about my job are the girls! They are such sources of joy and remind me every day of why we do what we do.
Today, be encouraged in whatever waiting period God has placed you. Continue to seek Him and trust Him. He will work it out in His perfect time and plan. As I like to say, “Love God, love others, and never give up. The rest will fall into place!”
1. When is the last time you had to be patient and wait on the Lord? What did you do to seek him?
2. When there is adversity in your life, do others see your circumstance or the light of Christ shinning through it?
3. What does the Bible say about the peace of God?
Proverbs 3:5-6
Proverbs 16:9
James 1:2-4