Promises for a Stalled-Out Heart
Life isn’t always easy, is it? Like speed bumps, it’s inevitable that we hit some circumstances that slow us down and add some challenge in our daily lives. It can be hard moving slow and lacking direction when all you want to do is fly down the freeway towards a destination.
I was reading a few verses this morning in 1 Peter. Peter concludes his letter by sharing some words to the elders of the church and to the younger people. He mentions, “give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you” (1 Peter 5:7). What an amazing charge. Friend, God cares about you.
Right before this, Peter says, “so humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time He will lift you up in honor” (v. 6). At the right time. God has a time for you. And it may look different than your friends, and that’s ok – God’s timing is unique. His care for you goes so far as to have a truly personal story that He’s writing for you.
This is a hard truth for me to digest, I have to say. When life feels like it’s stalled out, it can be easy to throw in the towel and give up on the truths of God. Peter knows this and his next words function as a warning to his readers.
“Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith” (v. 8-9). This truth is just as important to remember – there’s an enemy that’s hell-bent on causing you to doubt the goodness of God. Faith is our weapon to combat. We must continue to believe.
Peter’s thought finishes this way, “So after you have suffered a little while, He will restore, support, and strengthen you, and He will place you on a firm foundation” (v.10b). This is the promise to the one who continues. Personal restoration, support, and strength from Almighty God.
Do you find yourself stalled out and looking for answers? Maybe you’re cruising in the fast lane towards your dreams. Either way, God has a unique call on your life, friend. When the speed bumps come, remember there’s a battle for your allegiance. The God we serve is greater, but we must lean into Him during trials.
Friend, let me simply remind you, God has a plan for your life. It’s not only decent or good – it’s great and personal just for you. Find the courage to rejoice in the ways it looks different than your peers, those are the specifics that make your story – yours. Peter concludes with the promise that at the right time we will be restored, supported, and strengthened and God will place you on that divinely made firm foundation for you to stand.
