God’s goodness is all around me, no doubt. But… I’m still waiting on that one thing I’ve been praying for. Have you been there?
You trust God, you love Him, but there’s that lingering unanswered prayer—the doctor’s report that hasn’t changed, or the pain that is still there, or perhaps, its the miracle that is nowhere in sight. You’ve prayed, cried out, and yet… nothing seems to shift. It’s like staring at a closed door, and hopelessness is standing right outside, just waiting to creep in. Despair wants a foothold. The enemy is whispering lies, making you wonder if God’s even listening.
So, what do we do in times like these? How do we keep going when the miracle hasn’t come?
Encouraging Yourself in the Lord
I think of King David in moments like this. In 1 Samuel 30, we find David at one of the lowest points in his life. He and his men had just returned to their camp at Ziklag, only to find it destroyed by fire. Their families had been taken captive, and everything they owned was gone. As if that wasn’t enough, David’s men turned against him, ready to stone him because of their deep grief and anger.
It was a moment of utter despair. David could have easily given in to the overwhelming weight of hopelessness, but the Bible tells us that “David encouraged himself in the Lord his God” (1 Samuel 30:6, KJV). He didn’t give in to fear or discouragement. Instead, he turned to the only One who could restore his strength—his God.
David sought God’s direction, and in response, God assured him of victory. With renewed strength and hope, David led his men, and they recovered everything that had been lost. This wasn’t just a story of military victory—it was a testimony of trusting God even when everything seems lost.
He is Still Good
Whether or not my prayer gets answered the way I want, one truth remains: God is good. His mercy endures forever (Psalm 136:1). And as long as I have breath, I will praise Him. Because His goodness isn’t dependent on my circumstances. His love for me is steadfast, and His plans for me are still for my good (Jeremiah 29:11).
When the wait feels unbearable and hope seems faint, remember that He is with you in the waiting. Even if the answer looks different from what you’re expecting, know that His timing is perfect, and His love never fails.
So, here’s my anthem—and I hope it becomes yours too: “For the Lord is good, and His mercy endures forever.”
Selah.
Let’s praise Him together, trusting that even in the waiting, He is still worthy.
