I am counting on the Lord; yes, I am counting on him. I have put my hope in his word. (Psalm 130:5, NLT)
It was at the end of 2008 that my family re-rooted from Melbourne back to Malaysia. We stayed there for nearly five months because the migration effort didn’t work out. We were disappointed but not crushed. As soon as we arrived in Malaysia, within a week, the Lord whispered into my heart. He said, “Seven years from today is your second migration. Get ready for the move.”
The still small voice rested within my soul with great certainty. Even though I have zero clues how it is going to happen, deep down, I knew, it is going to happen!
The Lord is faithful, and He kept to His side of the bargain. 2015, which was the exact seventh year, we migrated to Melbourne and received permanent resident status in November. A complete cycle of divine leading and provision of God!
The main lesson from this seven years cycle is to place my hope in God’s word.
HOPE implies little certainty but suggests confidence or assurance in the possibility that what one desires or longs for will happen.
There are two components to partner with the hope of which I put into practice during the seven years of waiting for the Lord towards the second migration. These two are patience and determination. Abram waited for nearly three decades for the son of promise. Throughout those years, he patiently waited, and with a determined heart, he placed his faith in the Lord. His hope in the promise of God came into fruition. It was worth the wait!
What are you hoping for this season? What is the Lord saying to you?
A simple three steps formula is:
- Learn to recognise the voice of God
- Learn to place your hope in His word
- Learn to have patience and a determination heart
One thing for sure is, nobody could assure you the exact time of the fulfilment of God’s promises unless God precisely informs you (Genesis 18:10). Therefore, in between the waiting period, cling tightly to the three steps formula. They worked for me, and I believe they would work for you too. May you have an enjoyable waiting season as you place your hope in God’s word.
Let us pray
Dear Lord, You are a faithful God and when I place my hope in Your word, rest assured it will come through. One thing which I need to improve is to have patience during the waiting season. I shall wait upon the Lord, and I will receive new strength. I look forward to the day where my hope in accordance with Your word and promises will bear fruits! In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!