How Long?

Some things just seem to last forever.  They go on and on and on, sort of like a Northern Ohio winter.  Or perhaps the wait for your food when you are hungry.  A red light when you are in a hurry, or any philosophy class (trust me on this one). 

When we face difficulties, it may seem like they are unending.  When we are discouraged, it seems like it goes on forever.  We are not the only ones who feel that way.  In the Bible, there was a man whose name was Habakkuk.  He looked around and saw all the difficulties and problems in his country and wondered just how long God would let such a mess go on.  He cried out, “O Lord, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear?”(Habakkuk 1:2, ESV).  Habakkuk kept wondering when God was going to do something.

It’s easy for us to get overwhelmed in our struggles.  Our pain lasts longer than we want it too.  Our loneliness goes on and on.  We can’t seem to shake the hurt from times gone by.  The truth is, God moves on His timetable.  It’s not always easy for us to understand, but it’s a fact.  God is working, just not always as quickly as we would like him to.  A few years ago, I had a kidney transplant.  I really hoped my recovery would go quick.  While my kidney function returned rapidly, I had other medical issues to deal with for nearly a year after surgery.  My timetable for healing was different than God’s.  Nonetheless, He was still at work in my life.  Just not how and when I wanted it.

As Habakkuk vents his frustration to God, God teaches him a thing or two.  By the end of their conversation, Habakkuk says, “I have heard all about you, Lord.  I am filled with awe by your amazing works” (Habakkuk 3:2, NLT).  He remembered just how great God really is.  When you are stuck and wondering “how long,” remember that God is working and moving on His time.  He can do some awe-inspiring things in your life.  Let Him have room, and time, to work.