I’m often infatuated with God’s hand, not His heart. I’ve read the scriptures and parables. I know the miracles He’s performed. But I skim over the time it takes for the miracles to happen.
Jonah was in a whale’s mouth for three days (I’m gagging at the thought).
Moses and the Israelites were told the Promised Land would be within reach in about two weeks’ time. The journey ended up taking 40 years.
Paul, one of the Bible’s most important voices, was held in captivity for four years.
Gideon was tormented by the Midianites for seven years.
A woman bled for 12 years…
These stories stress the importance of perseverance in Christ. But these characters weren’t exactly jumping for joy amid their difficult circumstances. They were frustrated, bitter, insecure.
But He still leaves the porch light on for me as I wade through the muck and mire.
It’s oddly affirming to see the human moments people in the Bible experienced in the face of adversity and uncertainty. I think of David’s lament-laded verses in Psalms 13. Even he, one of the Bible’s most heralded beacons of faith, was afraid and doubted God had his best interest at heart.
There’s nothing new under the sun.
But His promise is the weapons may form, but they won’t prosper. The challenge is holding onto this in the wait.
In the midst of trials, oftentimes my faith is choked out by the thorns of life, just like the Matthew 13:7 parable. My faith wilts and I dismiss the call to be rooted in God at all times (James 1:6). Despite this, He still craves my devotion. His beckoning hands outstretch to me. But bruised memories of empty promises and disappointment hardens my heart to His love. I box Him out until I’m ready for Him.
But He still leaves the porch light on for me as I wade through the muck and mire. With each weathered step, the sweet aroma of grace and home washes over me. I feel Him shining on my face.
It’s difficult to comprehend God’s unconditional love because here on Earth, we don’t have a flawless example of it. There is a degree of conditionality to our unconditional love.
We all have our breaking point. Something we can’t turn away from. Something we can’t forgive.
But regardless of what we’ve done or how we show up, God will be there for us. Always and forever.
It doesn’t make sense. But it’s not supposed to because we’re applying our understanding of love to a sovereign God who embodies true love.
Love is patient and kind.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never ends.
BABL 