“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4)
Twelve years. Exactly how long it took from the day God stirred Gladys Aylward’s heart towards China’s mission field to actually applying. Reality check – she was turned down, told “she didn’t have the capacity to learn a difficult language”. The call remained steady in her heart even though it would be another four years before she would begin her journey with “nothing more than an abiding peace she was doing the will of God.” Gladys not only learned the language, but faithfully served Jesus speaking of the salvation He offered to all who believed. She listened for God’s voice and remained focused on His call for her life. No matter the delay, discouragements or flat-out denials – Gladys persevered through faith in God.
Faith wavering? Wondering if God will ever do what He said He would? Heed Gladys’ lesson…16 years. Perhaps God is waiting for you to yield to His will. Read the above scripture again. Testing produces perseverance for our maturity. New levels require a deeper faith, understanding and maturity in the Word. If you are in a season of waiting – be joyful – God’s not done with you yet!
Kelly McGaha