If Disappointment Has Become Your Companion . . .

This is a repost from an article I wrote Nov 12, 2013.  I can still recall the emotions I felt as I wrote it. Nearly three years later, I'm in a completely different place and every word I wrote that day (much of which is God's Word) has proven to be completely true.  I hope this encourages you through your disappointment or heartbreak today . . .

If Disappointment Has Become Your Companion . . . (Repost from Nov 12, 2013)

If that’s the case, I can understand.  The last year of my life has been one full of large-scale change.  I’ve ventured out into some new areas to pursue what I believe God has more uniquely gifted me to do.  As you can imagine, that has not set well with everyone I know and it has not been easy.  I knew that would be the case, up front, but I could not have guessed how hard and full of disappointment it would be.  

I’ve been turned down and told “no” more times in the last year than in all my other years combined.  Probably twice as much.  And each time it is disappointing.  I’ve had job interviews that I thought sealed the deal and I would get an offer for sure.  No dice.  I’ve pitched vision and plans to people who I thought would be as excited about them as I am.  Not the case.  In fact, just last night, I got word from a pastor, whom I had hoped would hire me for some extensive coaching with his staff, that the time wasn’t right yet.  That too was disappointing. 

But last night, as I was tempted to feel sorry for myself and say silly things like, “I’m just getting used to disappointment” I was instantly reminded of this:

ROMANS 8:28 THE MESSAGE (MSG)

26-28 Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.

Many other translations simply say, “All things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.”  It’s true.  All things – every detail – are worked into something good.  Even the disappointments.  Keep your head up, my friend.  Keep your faith high.  Disappointment does not need to be your companion, just another tool to shape you into all God has in mind for you.