Lately I’m amazed at how patient and understanding you’ve been as you wait for your next step. Although I know you’re hyper-focused on your goal, you don’t show it. I’m amazed at your self-control and the trust you must have in God and the process.
Obviously you understand that the only thing that you can control 100% of the time is your attitude. That one truth will serve you well as you walk through the different phases of life.
So many people get impatient and ugly when their plans don’t work out. Understandably, when we set our minds on a “plan” and it falls by the wayside, it’s difficult to have a good attitude. Sometimes we hold so tightly to our goal that it consumes our thoughts, time and energy. You’re working hard and you have a tight grip on those things that navigate your life. That’s incredibly admirable and many people wish they had your vision and work ethic (a wonderful combination). There’s no doubt in my mind that you will achieve your goals. And I know that you have a timeline in your head. That may work out – and it may not.
Often, I’ve seen God hold out on the things we want a little too much. Meaning….when we want something REALLY bad – often it takes longer than we think it will.
While you wait I wanted to give you some food for thought. Because holding on too tightly to a timeline can set our world spinning. So how do you know if you’re holding on too tightly? Here are some signs:
- You find yourself stressed a lot…..A lot!
- You notice you’re consumed by your thoughts about your goal/timeline
- Your energy and free time are all aimed toward your goal/timeline/agenda
There will always be naysayers – those people who tell you that you won’t reach your goal and how crazy you are to think you would. I am not that person. I believe wholeheartedly you will succeed. Wholeheartedly! After all, I’m your momma, who else believes in you more?!?!?!?
It’s just that I’ve been around the block a few times and I’ve seen God teach lessons we wish we’d never have to learn – especially when we want something realllllly bad!
Remember, I think you’re handling this beautifully.. But I also know your heart and how bad you want it. I’d encourage you to think about what if things don’t work out your way? Can you be happy? Are you still going to be able to be good to others? Are you still going to be able to give God praise? Can you trust God and enjoy life as you wait?
I think you will. Sometimes it helps to know that we can’t control everything, it’s good to trust that God may have a different timetable. And when we honor Him and trust Him, He honors us. Nothing is lost. Remember that.
Your maturity will reap benefits as you enjoy life and all that God has for you. I am sure you will attain your goal just remember to hold those reigns loosely. You can’t force the horse to go where he doesn’t want to go!
Hello Linkup Friends! If you’d like to link up your articles for this week please do so below and Be Sure to visit others in the party!!!
Rebecca Hastings says
There is so much beautiful wisdom here. I find myself reminded by your words. Reminded to let things go, to relax, to wait. It doesn’t come naturally for me — at all. But every single time I let go, take a breath, drop my shoulders, I am reminded that it is worth it.
Char says
That’s sweet Rebecca…it’s worth it.
Laurie says
One of the hardest things in life is watching your children want something so badly and not being able to give it to them. Or even help them to achieve their goal. You have written a wonderful and wise letter to your son/daughter. We all have to learn the lesson that we don’t always get to make our own timelines. Patience is one of the hardest lessons to learn, believe me, I know!
Joanne Viola says
There is beautiful wisdom in this post for us all. It’s so hard to sit by and watch. Yet we know God is unfolding the plans in His time, in His way, and in perfection. Have a great day, Char!
Michele Morin says
It’s one thing to struggle myself, but SO HARD to watch our kids struggle with the unknown. Thanks for encouragement today!
Anita Ojeda says
Holding on ‘just right’ requires so much thought, prayer, and understanding. I’m so glad that God has everything under control and that I don’t have to stress about it. I wish I would have known this sooner!
Char says
Yeah… me too Anita! A delicate and intuitive balance.
Lauren Sparks says
So hard for me to “release” the control I think I have much less help guide my children to! laurensparks.net
Char says
I understand… I think a lot of us women have this problem. Praying for you!
Patrick Weseman says
I always tell my kiddos that control is an illusion and that we don’t control anything. That the unknown is our destiny and why we don’t know what tomorrow brings, it may bring good things so hold on to that hope.
Thanks for the good words. Thanks for hosting and i hope that you have a wonderful week.
Char says
You’re absolutely right – control is an illusion. That’s why it’s so important that we trust. Thanks for stopping by Patrick.
Gayl says
Char, this is good advice for all of us. Thanks for sharing. Blessings to you!
Char says
Thanks Gayl.
Maree Dee says
Love your wisdom to not hold too tightly to our plan. This is a hard one for me. I had to learn to let go. Maree