Feeling Stuck and the Struggle of Waiting
Have you ever felt stuck in a job or situation you can’t seem to escape? You’ve been praying for change, but it feels like God isn’t listening. Maybe you feel like you’re in a holding pattern, waiting for something to happen. This feeling can be incredibly frustrating and can last for weeks, months, or even years.
The Challenge of Waiting
This kind of frustration can lead us to worry and behave in ways that aren’t peaceful, potentially adding to stress and frustration. Especially when it affects crucial areas such as finances, relationships, or personal peace, it can overflow into other aspects of our lives.
If you’re in one of these challenging seasons, there are three urgent things you need to do right now: pray, reach out to your community, and cultivate gratitude.
Praying: The First Step
First, make prayer a cornerstone of your routine. While it might sound cliché, it’s a crucial component. Communicate with God daily, or several times a day if you’re particularly stressed. Prayer can transform your waiting period from hopeless into something purposeful. Remember Matthew 11:30, where Jesus says, “For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” You can find peace and purpose through prayer as God listens and works during your wait.
Engage Your Community
The second step involves reaching out to your community. Isolation is a ploy that the enemy uses. Having trusted friends and family provide you with truth and encouragement is vital. They can remind you of God’s promises when you’re overwhelmed by stress or doubt. Proverbs 27:19 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” These connections offer the much-needed encouragement and grounding in truth during times of transition.
A Shift in Perspective
I personally faced a similar situation when I felt the urge to leave my job but couldn’t find new opportunities. My husband’s support helped me to see from a fresh perspective. Perhaps God wanted me to serve someone in my current role before moving on. This learning helped me to refocus, aligning with God’s purpose and managing my wait with renewed intent.
Gratitude: Find Blessings in the Wait
Lastly, focus on gratitude as you navigate feelings of being stuck. Waiting can shift our focus to what we lack, allowing negativity to take root. However, when we make gratitude a habit, we can guard against this. Make a list of what you’re thankful for and review it regularly. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 reminds us, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Download for FREE our Thankful List to jump start your list to pray over and reflect.
Gratitude shifts your perspective from lack to abundance. Highlight how God has blessed you even in this period of waiting.
Conclusion: Staying Faithful in the Wait
In times of waiting and feeling stuck, practicing prayer, engaging with your community, and cultivating gratitude are critical. Watch or listen to our podcast for more insights, especially if you’re navigating a difficult job search or challenging leadership.
How to Pray More: https://youtu.be/J9pJqKOaExw?si=U9AXIGZ89ucx81jH
How Not to Worry: https://youtu.be/2BQmwu3m1sE?si=_Y981NqLzosoLM9H
The Power of Community: https://youtu.be/tCGraKH4PPs?si=b52xlHlHhMD85SqX
Cultivating Thankfulness: https://youtu.be/xebAkZNu0AM?si=qV43CmtR6GXfDWew
God’s plans are trustworthy, and He invites us to guard our hearts and thoughts by focusing on the truth through prayer and community. Stay faithful and keep learning about the good news.
