What practical steps can we take to trust God's word during difficult times? A look at Psalm 105:19 “Until the time his word came to pass, the word of the LORD tested him.” Joseph had a specific promise from God; the years between the dream and the throne were God-ordained tests that proved both Joseph and the promise reliable. That same pattern guides us in our own hard seasons. Recognize the purpose of testing • Testing is not punishment; it is preparation (James 1:2-4). • God’s word proves our hearts, and our hardships prove His word true. • The gap between promise and fulfillment refines faith so it will stand when the promise arrives. Anchor your heart in God’s track record • God cannot lie (Hebrews 6:18); every promise is “Yes” in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20). • Remember past faithfulness—Joseph, Israel, your own story (Joshua 21:45). • Write down specific ways God has already come through; review them when doubt whispers. Practical ways to keep the Word in front of you • Read or listen to Scripture first thing each morning—let truth set the tone. • Post key verses in places you glance often: phone lock screen, bathroom mirror, dashboard. • Memorize short promises that speak directly to your struggle (e.g., Romans 8:28; Psalm 27:13). Speak the promises out loud • Verbal confession shifts focus from feelings to facts. • Declare verses using your name: “Until the time God’s word comes to pass, His word is testing me.” • Sing Scripture-filled songs; worship reinforces trust. Wait actively, not passively • Obey the last clear instruction God gave—Joseph managed a prison with excellence before he managed Egypt. • Serve others; trials shrink when we pour into someone else. • Keep a gratitude list—thankfulness disarms discouragement. Lean on fellowship • Share specific promises you are standing on with trusted believers; invite them to remind you when you waver. • Attend gatherings where Scripture is opened; corporate faith lifts individual hearts (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Seek counsel from mature saints who have weathered long waits and seen God deliver. Celebrate every glimpse of fulfillment • Small answers are down payments on the full promise; mark them and rejoice. • Testimonies feed expectancy—record them and retell them. • The day the promise arrives will be sweeter because you noted God’s fingerprints along the journey. Trust grows when God’s unchanging word is treated as the highest reality. Keep it before your eyes, on your lips, and in community, and the very trial meant to test you will instead strengthen you—until His word comes to pass. |
    |